Nechtan Morbet facts for kids

Nechtan, son of Erip, was a king of the Picts. He ruled from 456 to 480 AD. The Picts were an ancient people who lived in what is now Scotland.

Nechtan was known by several special names. People called him Morbet and Celchamoth. In Latin, he was called Magnus, which means "the Great." He ruled for 24 years.

The Story of Abernethy

King lists, which are old records of kings, tell us an interesting story about Nechtan. This story connects him to the founding of a place called Abernethy.

It is said that Nechtan the Great gave Abernethy to Saint Brigid. This gift was meant to last forever. The reason for this gift was very special.

Nechtan had been forced to leave his home. His brother, Drest, had sent him away to Ireland. While in exile, Nechtan asked Saint Brigid for help. He wanted her to pray to God for him.

Saint Brigid prayed for Nechtan. She told him, "If you return to your country, God will help you. You will rule the kingdom of the Picts peacefully." This prophecy came true, and Nechtan became king.

Nechtan and Saint Boite

There is another old story about King Nechtan. It comes from the life story of Boite, a saint. The town of Monasterboice is named after him.

This story claims that Saint Boite brought Nechtan back to life. It also links Nechtan to a place called Kirkbuddo in Strathmore.

Who Was Nechtan?

Some historians think that these stories might be about a different king. There was another Pictish king with a very similar name. He was called Nechtan son of Irb. It can be tricky to tell them apart in old records.

We don't know much else for sure about Nechtan, son of Erip. But his connection to Abernethy and the saints makes him an important figure in Pictish history.