How St Patricks Day Became A National Day Of Celebration In Ireland

Saint Patrick’s feast day on 17 March is celebrated around the globe: but who was Patrick, and how did he become Ireland’s patron saint?
Much of Saint Patrick’s life is shrouded in mystery, which is understandable, seeing as it’s thought he was born in the late 4th century. It’s believed that his name was originally Maewyn Succat and that he was raised in a religious family (his father was a deacon) in Roman Britain. Despite his upbringing, the young boy who was to become Saint Patrick is said not to have had a strong faith of his own. In what are thought to be his own writings, the saint stated that he only found God after being kidnapped by Irish pirates at the age of 16, brought to Ireland and subjected to slavery.

Statues of St Patrick can be found throughout Ireland, watching over the country

For six years he was held captive, working as a shepherd (allegedly on the mountain of Sliabh Mis, County Antrim) and discovering his faith in God. He is said to have escaped from Ireland at the age of 22 and eventually found his way back to his family. He then began to study Christianity, becoming a cleric and taking the name Patrick.
After apparently having a vision inspiring him to return to Ireland and preach the word of God, Patrick decided to do just that. His supposed landing site is at Three Mile Water, Brittas Bay, in Leinster, though he practised throughout the country. Patrick is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland, where people primarily worshipped many Celtic gods. In his written Confession, Saint Patrick states that he went on to baptise thousands and became bishop of Armagh. He and his followers are said to have built many of Ireland’s earliest churches, such as the one at Saul, County Down, which has been credited as the first Christian church in Ireland.

Saul Church is allegedly the first Christian church in Ireland, founded by St Patrick

Saint Patrick is thought to have died on the March 17 461. Long after his death, various legends began to appear about him and his works, such as the story of his having banished snakes from Ireland. In fact, there were never any snakes on the island in the first place – the myth is believed by many to be a metaphor for his banishing paganism from Ireland and replacing it with Christianity.
Saint Patrick has long been recognised as Ireland’s primary patron saint for his role in bringing Christianity to the country. His feast day is celebrated annually in Ireland and countries across the world, most notably in areas where the Irish diaspora have settled, such as Boston, which has a large Irish-American population. The best celebrations are possibly in Ireland’s capital; parades, pub visits, folk music sessions and dancing are all common features of a traditional St Patrick’s Day in Dublin.

Today, St Patrick’s feast day is a time of celebration across Ireland

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.