Travel back in time with Cairde na Cille through Victorian and Georgian Belfast, the Middle Ages, and into the land of saints, scholars, sinners, and pagans! Belfast’s most ancient burial ground offers the city’s closest connection to traditional Celtic Ireland of myth, music, and legend.
From Medieval church, to the resting place for victims of An Gorta Mór (The Great Hunger), Friar’s Bush is possibly Belfats’s oldest Christian burial site, dating back to even pre-Christian times. Although burials no longer take place here, it is recognised as a historical gem of Belfast through the ages. The ancient mysteries surrounding this old walled graveyard at Stranmillis have long fascinated historians. There is a tradition of a link with St Patrick and strong evidence of a Medieval friary on the site.
Cairde na Cille (Friends of the Churchyard), a non-profit based in Belfast, is transforming Friar’s Bush graveyard from dereliction and neglect to a pleasant, outdoor space for all to enjoy. Find yourself transported through the centuries and learn about fascinating aspects of Belfast’s history and unique secrets of this ancient place of worship, ceremony, and remembrance. Cairde na Cille’s experienced and knowledgeable guides are well versed in the heritage, history, and cultural context of this symbolic graveyard. Learn about the transformation of this once derelict, abandoned, and overgrown graveyard on a lively tour, with passionate and engaging guides, that will fascinate all. Some tours are enhanced with music and drama during special events and festivities.
Join Cairde na Cille for a fascinating and memorable tour, and explore the rich heritage of South Belfast at its most ancient graveyard, a hidden gem of significant Irish history that spans centuries.
All proceeds of Cairde na Cille’s tours go towards this non-profit organisation’s many charitable endeavours including community education and well being programmes, Irish culture and language events, ancient site restoration and graveyard maintenance.
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