Glúniarann facts for kids

Glúniarann (which means Iron-Knee in Old Norse) was a Viking leader. He might have been a King of Dublin, a Viking kingdom in Ireland. Some historians think he was part of the Uí Ímair family, a very powerful Viking dynasty.

Glúniarann's Story: What We Know

Early Mentions in History

The Annals of Ulster are old historical records from Ireland. They mention Glúniarann only once, in the year 895. The records say that Glúniarann led an army from Dublin. They attacked Armagh, an important place in Ireland.

The records state that Glúniarann's army captured many people. They took seven hundred and ten persons away from Armagh.

Other Historical Accounts

Another old record, the Annals of the Four Masters, also talks about Glúniarann. It describes the same attack on Armagh. This record also mentions that parts of the church and an oratory (a small chapel) were damaged.

Who Was Glúniarann?

Historians believe Glúniarann might have become King of Dublin. He may have taken over after Sitriuc mac Ímair. During the 880s and 890s, Dublin had many fights among different Viking families. This makes it hard for historians to know exactly who was in charge.

The old records do not say where Glúniarann came from. But his name, Glúniarann, was later used by another member of the Uí Ímair family. This suggests that Glúniarann might have been related to Ímar, a famous Viking ruler.

The Fate of Glúniarann

We don't know what happened to Glúniarann in the end. However, the old records mention a man named Glúntradna mac Glúniarainn. He was likely Glúniarann's son.

The Annals of the Four Masters describe Glúntradna's death. It says that the Conailli people and Athdeidh, son of Laighne, defeated a group of Vikings. In this battle, Glúntradna, along with Amhlaeibh (grandson of Ímar), and eight hundred others were killed.