Mac Giolla Phádraig dynasty
| Mac Giolla Phádraig / Fitzpatrick | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Country | Ireland |
| Parent house | Dál Birn |
| Titles |
Kingdom of Ireland titles: |
| Founder | Gilla Pátraic mac Donnchada, heir of Óengus Osrithe through Cerball mac Dúnlainge's son Cellach |
| Final ruler | Bernard FitzPatrick, 2nd Baron Castletown |
| Current head | in abeyance |
| Dissolution | 29 May 1937 |
Kingdom of Ireland titles:
Mac Giolla Phádraig (pronunciation) (alternately Mac Gilla Pátraic) is a native Irish dynastic surname which translates into English as "Son of the Devotee of (St.) Patrick". In the medieval period, the Mac Giolla Phádraigs were hereditary kings of Osraige; today, the name is commonly translated to "Fitzpatrick".
The name "Giolla Phádraig" first appears in the annals at the end of the tenth century in connection with the Christianized Uí Ímair dynasty of Waterford, and is later found elsewhere. Likely as a consequence of the intermarriage, this surname came to be borne by the leading medieval branch of the Dál Birn lineage, the illustrious ruling dynasty of the neighbouring Osraige. This surname was adopted by the descendants of king Gilla Patráic mac Donnchada who reigned as king of Osraige from 976 to 996. Some scholars speculate a Norse influence on the name. In 1541, by the submission of Brian Mac Giolla Phádraig, then the ruling chief of Upper Ossory and lineal descendant of Gilla Pátraic mac Donnchada, the name was anglicised to Fitz-Patrick, and the majority of the Mac Giolla Phádraig clan followed suit. Many members of the lineage feature prominently in Irish and English politics throughout history.
As would be expected, mumerous of places throughout the historic Osraige and Upper Ossory regions and elsewhere have strong associations with the activity of Clann Giolla Phádraig. These include Jerpoint Abbey in Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny; Aghamacart,Aghaboe Abbey, the vicinity of St Canice's Cathedral, Gowran, Grangefertagh near Johnstown, County Kilkenny, Ballagharahin, Co. Laois,Ballaghmore Castle,Cullahill Castle, amongst other places.
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