Local Scholar Launches Unique Saint Patrick Tour

Local Scholar Launches Unique Saint Patrick  Tour 

Dr Thérèse Cullen, founder of Irish Monastic Tours, launched a new interactive tour bringing to light the life and legacy of Saint Patrick.

‘Saint Patrick: The Man, the Myth, the Legend’ is suitable for local participants as well as international tourists looking to learn more about St Patrick, and discover the ancient sites and monuments linked to the life and legacy of Ireland’s Patron Saint. 

The tour includes an unforgettable day trip to the glorious countryside of County Down and visits to Saul Church, Saint Patrick’s first church in Ireland; Struell Wells, pre-Christian wells that have been a place of healing for fifteen centuries; Inch Abbey, where the story of Saint Patrick and the snakes was recorded; Historic Downpatrick to uncover Saint Patrick’s legacy and see the Downpatrick High Cross in Down County Museum; Down Cathedral and the traditional site of Saint Patrick’s grave; and The Saint Patrick Centre.

Speaking about the unique opportunity to experience St Patrick’s story, Dr Cullen said, “The story of St Patrick provides elements that everyone can relate to Saint Patrick is part of our common Christian heritage on this island, as he predates sectarian disputes and has been claimed by both communities.”

Dr Cullen has a wide background of knowledge ranging from archaeology to theology, giving her the ability to tailor the tour to her guests’ interests and people with all levels of knowledge of St Patrick.  Having most recently researched the commemoration of St Patrick in Downpatrick, Dr Cullen is an expert on St Patrick’s Day celebrations.

“While St Patrick’s Day has become a day most commonly spent in the pub, it’s important to remember why we celebrate the day. What better way to kick off this year’s celebrations than by getting outdoors and experiencing the same landmarks as Patrick did fifteen centuries ago?” added Dr Cullen. 

Cllr Mickey Ruane, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson said, “Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is delighted that Thérèse Cullen’s Irish Monastic Tours has set up this brilliant new day tour to the Downpatrick area from Belfast. Giving visitors the opportunity to explore the wonderful legacy of St Patrick in our stunning local countryside and visit amazing local churches, monuments, museums and centres so closely connected with Ireland’s Patron Saint. This is a great way for us to celebrate the run-up to St Patrick’s Day and promises to bring more visitors to the town of Downpatrick.”

Ticket cost for this unique tour opportunity is £30 per person, with pick up on Saturdays at Jury’s Hotel, Great Victoria Street, Belfast, at 9.30 am, and return to Belfast at approximately 5pm.  The tour will take place every Saturday commencing Saturday 5 March.  Tickets can be booked directly through Irish Monastic Tours www.irishmonastictours.com or through Visit Belfast http://visit-belfast.com