The Enigmatic Fortress of Dun Sgathaich on Skye
The remnants of Dun Sgathaich, located on the Isle of Skye, are believed to occupy the site of the legendary fortress Dún Scáith, attributed to Scáthach, a renowned warrior queen said to have existed around 200 BC. The history of Scotland during this era is explored in a broader historical context.
Scáthach, a name that translates to “Shadowy” in Gaelic, is featured prominently in the Red Branch Cycle, a collection of medieval Irish tales that represent one of the four main cycles of Irish mythology. Some narratives suggest that she was the daughter of the King of Scythia, a region covering parts of Eastern Europe and Asia. Revered as a warrior and martial arts instructor, her stronghold, Dún Scáith, also known as the Castle of Shadows, is thought to be located where the ruins of Dun Sgathaich, which date back to the 1300s, now stand. Scáthach was said to only accept those young warriors who could breach the numerous defenses of her fortress and prove their valor.
Cúchulainn, the iconic hero of Ulster, is among those who sought Scáthach’s training. According to legend, the Cuillin mountains on Skye are named after him. His story intertwines with that of Emer, as her father Forgall stipulated that Cúchulainn must first undergo training as a warrior before they could wed. Cúchulainn and his companion Ferdiad journeyed to Skye, succeeded in accessing Dún Scáith, and thus were transformed into skilled warriors under Scáthach’s guidance. It was during this time that Scáthach presented Cúchulainn with his infamous barbed spear, the Gáe Bulg.
The morals of this age appeared to differ considerably from contemporary values. As an aspect of his training, Cúchulainn aided Scáthach in subduing a rival female chieftain, Aífe (or Aoife, believed by some to be Scáthach’s sister), compelling her to settle their disputes. This encounter also led to Cúchulainn fathering a son with Aífe. In a twist of fate, he later had a liaison with Scáthach’s daughter, Uathach, which culminated in him slaying her husband, Cochar Croibhe, in a duel. According to various versions of the narrative, after finishing his training, Cúchulainn also became romantically involved with Scáthach herself.
Additionally, certain accounts describe Scáthach as a potent sorceress endowed with prophetic abilities. In various tales, she rises to prominence as the Celtic goddess of death, overseeing the journey of those who perish in battle to Tír na nÓg, renowned as the Land of Eternal Youth—one of the most celebrated realms in Celtic mythology.
