Hill of Slane
East Ireland | County Meath
Hill of Slane located in County Meath (visible from road N2 in Slane Village) has been associated with Christianity in Ireland since its earliest days. The legend says that here, on Easter 433 AD St Patrick lit the first paschal fire, which was against druidic law. As a consequence of this incident he was hauled before King Laoghaire (pagan High King of Tara) to explain himself. His speech was so eloquent, that the king not only spared his life, but also allowed him to continue his mission. Saint Erc, whose it's believed to be a pagan druid converted by St Patrick, was appointed first Bishop of Slane and he founded first monastery, which flourished for next centuries. In 1512, on the site of an earlier abbey Sir Christopher Fleming, 8th Baron Slane founded friary and college for the Franciscan order, which ruins remains until today, including a 19-metre high gothic tower. There are great views from the Hill of Slane. When the weather is good you can see Sugar Loaf on south, and hills around the Dundalk near the border with Northern Ireland on the north.
- OPENING HOURS AND TICKETS :
- Freely accessible
- CAR PARK :
- Yes