Kells Historic Trail

In the 9th century, Kells was known as Áinius Érenn, the splendour of Ireland. The town will be forever associated with the illuminated gospels, the Book of Kells, that originated there over 1,200 years ago. Even then, Kells was a renowned centre of learning and enlightenment thanks to the influence of St Colmcille, who founded a monastic settlement here in the 6th century.

Today, Kells still echoes the boundaries of Colmcille’s long gone monastery with direct links to the past all around. Spend an hour or more exploring the landmarks of the town, which is an inspiring way to reach back over the centuries.