New book on Clonmacnoise set for weekend launch

A warm invitation has been extended by the Lemanaghan Bog Heritage Group to all history enthusiasts and cultural fanatics to the much-anticipated book launch of "The Annals of Clonmacnoise." This special event is a unique opportunity to celebrate the deep historical connections between Clonmacnoise, Lemanaghan, and the remarkable manuscript that brings their stories to life.

Hosted in ‘The Granary’ beside St. Manchans Church Boher, Ballycumber in the picturesque parish of Lemanaghan at 2.30pm on Saturday next, August 12, the book launch holds a significance that is deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of the local heritage.

The book's author is Nollaig Ó Muraile and the publisher is Edmund Burke, both of whom will visit the parish to attend the launch. Lemanaghan Castle, where the book was originally written, served as a sanctuary of knowledge and a guardian of history, reflecting the very spirit of the Annals of Clonmacnoise.

As part of their commitment to embracing the local heritage, the Lemanaghan Bog Heritage Group also invite members of the public to the "Voices of Lemanaghan: An Evening Walk, Words, and Melodies" at the Lemanaghan Monastic Site, which takes place at 7.15pm on Saturday evening as part of Heritage Week.

The walk along the 150-metre stretch of the pilgrim path will allow those taking part to discover the hidden treasure of St. Mella's Cell and the magical atmosphere of the sacred place will awaken the senses to the whispers of history.

The Heritage Week walk follows the annual blessing of the graves in Lemanaghan graveyard, and the celebration of Mass on the same evening at 6.30pm for those who wish to attend.