Hill of Ben facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Hill of Ben (Benigne)
Hill of Ben, Fore, County Westmeath
Highest point
Elevation	191 m (627 ft)
Listing	Marilyn
Geography
Location	County Westmeath, Republic of Ireland
Parent range	Westmeath Hills

The Hill of Ben is a special hill in County Westmeath, Ireland. It stands tall between three lakes: Lough Glore, Lough Lene, and Lough Ban. This hill is a very noticeable landmark in the valley where the famous Fore Abbey was built many centuries ago. Local stories say that Saint Patrick's helper, named Benigne, once taught people about Christianity from this very hill.

Discover the Hill of Ben

The Hill of Ben is located in the beautiful countryside of County Westmeath, Ireland. It's part of the Westmeath Hills and is known for standing out among the other smaller hills. The hill is 191 meters (about 627 feet) tall. This makes it a significant feature in the landscape, especially because it's surrounded by many lakes, which are called 'loughs' in Ireland. These loughs and hills create a unique and pretty landscape.

Legends and History

The Hill of Ben has a rich history and some interesting legends connected to it.

Fore Abbey and the Monks

Long, long ago, a powerful family known as De Lacy built a famous place called Fore Abbey right in the valley next to the Hill of Ben. This abbey was built for French Benedictine monks. These monks were religious people who lived together, dedicating their lives to prayer, study, and work. The Hill of Ben would have been a constant sight for them as they lived and worked in the valley below.

Saint Benigne's Story

One of the most famous legends about the Hill of Ben involves Saint Patrick's successor, a person named Benigne. Local stories say that Benigne used the hill as a place to preach. He would speak to the local communities from the hill, sharing the Christian message. This legend suggests the hill has been an important place for people for a very long time, possibly even a gathering spot.