Crom Cruach facts for kids
Crom Cruach was an ancient god from Ireland before Christianity came to the island. According to old Christian writings, people made offerings to him. Some stories even say that human sacrifices were part of his worship. It is believed that Saint Patrick ended the worship of Crom Cruach.
He was also known by other names, such as Crom Cróich or Cenn Cruach. He is linked to a later figure in Irish myths and folklore called Crom Dubh. There was even a special day, Domhnach Chrom Dubh, which was a festival for Crom Dubh.
Poems from the 12th century suggest that Crom Cruach was a god of good harvests. People might have offered him gifts in exchange for milk and grain. His image was described as a gold figure surrounded by twelve other figures made of stone or bronze. Some people think this means he was a sun god, with the twelve figures representing the signs of the zodiac.
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What Does the Name "Crom Cruach" Mean?
The name Crom Cruach has a few different forms and meanings. The word Crom (or cromm) means "bent," "crooked," or "stooped." Cenn means "head" or "chief."
The word Cruach (or crúach) means a "pile" or "heap." This could be a pile of grain, hay, or other gathered goods. It can also refer to hills or mountains that look like piles.
So, "Crom Cruach" could mean "the crooked one of the mound" or "head of the pile."
Where Was Crom Cruach Worshipped?
Archaeologists have found some interesting stones that might be connected to Crom Cruach.
The Killycluggin Stone
A special decorated stone, known as the Killycluggin Stone, is thought by some to be an image of Crom Cruach. This stone was found in County Cavan, Ireland. It was discovered broken into pieces and partly buried near a Bronze Age stone circle. It probably once stood inside this circle.
An old book from the 14th century, called the Book of McGovern, mentions Crom. It says that Crom was located at Kilnavert, right beside a road. Local women were said to tremble with fear when they passed by. Even today, people in the area believe the Killycluggin Stone is the Crom stone.
The Drumcoo Standing Stone
Another standing stone linked to Crom Cruach is in Drumcoo townland, County Fermanagh. This stone has a drawing of a walking man carved into it. Depending on when it was made, this figure could be Saint Patrick or a druid (an ancient Celtic priest). A nearby street is even named Crom Crúaich Way after this stone.
