Ireland’s Eye
The history of Ireland’s Eye in Howth spans back thousands of years, starting with the hunter-gatherers known as the Tuatha Dé Danann who colonised the area 8,000 years ago. Named Binn Eadair after the moon goddess Danu, the peninsula was revered by the Tuatha Dé Danann, with an important female, Eadair, choosing it as her final resting place. The arrival of the Celts saw a shift in power, with figures like Fionn Mac Cumhail and The Fianna making Howth a hub for hunting, training, and international voyages.
In the 7th Century CE, three holy men established a monastery on the island, giving rise to the church of the sons of Nessan. The Vikings later took control, naming the island Howth and establishing themselves permanently.
The peace and tranquility of the island was disrupted in 1852, when a young woman was found dead on Ireland’s Eye. A couple, Maria and William, traveled to Ireland’s Eye from Howth and only William returned. Maria’s body was found in the water, leading to suspicion surrounding William. A verdict of ‘found drowned’ was returned, until the state pathologist ordered the exhumation of her body (the first of this nature in Ireland).
Over the centuries, changes in ownership and notable events, such as the infamous Kirwan murder, have left their mark on the island’s history. They compiled a manuscript called the Garland of Howth, which contained the four Gospels. This is now on display in Trinity College Dublin, alongside the Book of Kells. And so, the name of the island changed to Inis Mac Nessain, which is what the island is known as to this day in the Irish language.
No water was found in her lungs during the post-mortem, therefore, she couldn’t have drowned after all. Despite a media frenzy and a trial, the truth about Maria’s death remains unclear. The Kirwan murder on Ireland’s Eye remains a notorious and tragic case in Irish history. For more on this, book our Ireland’s Eye Tour to hear our in-depth commentary on the case.
Today, Ireland’s Eye remains a bird sanctuary and protected wildlife haven, home to a diverse array of species including seabirds, seals, and marine mammals. Visitors to the island can witness these spectacular creatures firsthand, making it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike
An experience unlike any other
We are the only ferry company landing on Ireland’s Eye, giving you the opportunity to get off and explore
the beautiful flora and fauna of the island.
Explore the wider region
If you’re keen to venture beyond the city limits, Howth is just a short 25-minute journey from Dublin’s bustling center. Dublin itself is a lively capital city, offering an array of unexpected adventures where urban living harmoniously coexists with the great outdoors. This city has a cozy, village-like atmosphere and the warmth of an Irish pub. Surrounded by mountains, with a river running through its heart and a stunning bay in its horizon, Dublin’s charming streets and alleyways are brimming with colorful art, historic architecture, trendy cafes, and classic pubs.
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