The oldest known poem comes to Lisburn museum

This exhibition of historical background, images and paintings celebrates the oldest known poem in Gaelic - a 6th century eulogy to St. Colm Cille of Columba. It will be open to the public until May 30 between the hours of 10.00am and 5.00pm.

Distinguished Irish artist Brian Ferran and Scottish calligrapher Donald Murray have compiled this historic exhibition. This remarkable poem, which is the focus of the exhibition, is the earliest datable work in Gaelic literature, and was composed soon after Saint Colm Cille’s death in 597.

St Colm Cille is a powerful symbol of the shared Gaelic heritage of Ireland and Scotland. He was born into an aristocratic family in Donegal and ended his days in Iona off the Scottish coast. Among his many achievements were the introduction of Christianity to Scotland and the creation of a spirit of mutual tolerance between Christianity and traditional Gaelic culture.

Lisburn City Council would like to encourage residents and visitors alike to take the opportunity to view this free exhibition which shows a language link between the island of Ireland and Scotland.

The text of the exhibition is available in four versions Archaic Gaelic, Scottish Gaelic, Modern Irish and English.

For further information on the exhibition please contact David Mitchell, Good Relations Officer on 028 9250 9492 or email: [email protected]