Brigid Saint or Goddess?
Ancient cultural heritage immersive experience in the Saint Patrick Centre Downpatrick
Sit back and relax as you watch a demonstration of Saint Brigid cross-making by Brigid Watson. Using the materials provided try your hand at making your own cross. Refreshments provided. Excellent exhibition and fascinating story of the life of Saint Brigid and her links to the goddess Brigid. Opportunity to also view the exhibition about Saint Patrick.
Dates: Tuesday 1st February 2022 (SOLD OUT); Saturday 26th February 2022; Sunday March 20th 2022
Time 2.00- 4.00pm
Price £17 per person
On arrival at the Saint Patrick’s Centre you will be warmly welcomed with the offer of herbal tea/tea and oatcakes or pancakes with blackberry jam and honey. While enjoying the light refreshments you will have the opportunity to explore an excellent exhibition. It includes a display of artefacts and photographs about Saint Brigid and the Goddess Brigid
During this two hour experience you will be transported back in time to 5th Century and earlier as Brigid Watson paints a picture of life in Ireland in pagan times and in the time of the early Celtic saints. Brigid shares the story of the ancient Irish cultural heritage tradition of making the St Brigid’s Cross. This is a tradition which Brigid grew up with in her family home and it is widely practised across Ireland today. You will also learn about other traditions associated with Saint Brigid.
Following a demonstration of cross-making by Brigid, try your hand at making your own Saint Brigid’s cross.
In the ancient town of Downpatrick, home to the burial place of Saint Brigid at Down Cathedral, Brigid shares the story of the fascinating life of this Irish woman who is revered across Ireland and beyond.
Finally we walk a short distance(100m) from the Saint Patrick centre to the grave of saints Brigid, Patrick and Colmcille. From this ancient Christian hilltop site there are beautiful panoramic views across the County Down countryside.
The graveyard is beside the magnificent Down Cathedral, popular with visitors to Downpatrick and you may wish to visit it.
You will also have the opportunity to view a presentation and exhibition about Saint Patrick in the St Patrick Centre which has a café and shop.
Inclusions
Tea/Herbal tea with oatcakes or pancakes and butter, blackberry jam/ honey
All materials needed to make your personal Saint Brigid’s Cross
Gift of a miniature Saint Brigid’s Cross as a momento of your participation in the experience
Dates: Tuesday 1st February 2022; Saturday 26th February 2022; Sunday March 20th 2022
Time 2.00- 4.00pm
Price £17 per person