Conall mac Comgaill facts for kids
Conall mac Comgaill was an important king of a kingdom called Dál Riata. He ruled from around the year 558 until 574. Dál Riata was located in what is now parts of western Scotland and northeastern Ireland.
Who Was Conall mac Comgaill?
Conall was the son of another king, Comgall mac Domangairt. He is remembered for a very significant act. It is believed that Conall gave the island of Iona to Saint Columba. This was a big deal because Saint Columba then founded a famous monastery on Iona. This monastery became a major center for spreading Christianity in Scotland and beyond.
Important Events During His Reign
Historical records tell us about Conall's time as king. One old poem, the Duan Albanach, says that Conall ruled peacefully. It mentions he had "no disagreements" during his reign.
However, other records suggest there were some military actions. The Annals of Ulster, which are like ancient history books, mention an expedition in 568. Conall and another leader, Colmán Bec, led a trip to a place called Iardoaman.
A different historical record, the Annals of the Four Masters, gives more details. It says that Conall and Colmán Bec brought a "sea fleet" to the islands of Sol (Seil) and Ile (Islay). They reportedly took many valuable things from these islands. This shows that Conall was a strong leader who could lead military expeditions by sea.
Conall's Family
The Senchus fer n-Alban is another old document. It lists Conall's sons. It says he had seven sons: Loingsech, Nechtan, Artan, Tuathan, Tutio, and Coirpe.
Another son, Connad Cerr, is also thought to be Conall's son. The death of another son, Dúnchad, is mentioned in the historical records. Dúnchad led an army in a place called Kintyre. This shows that Conall's family was involved in important events and leadership roles in Dál Riata.
Conall mac Comgaill's reign was a key period for Dál Riata. His actions, especially giving Iona to Saint Columba, had a lasting impact on the history of Scotland and the spread of Christianity.
