Colmcille1500 celebrates the life and legacy of Colmcille or Columba,1500 years from his birth. It promotes the heritage of the saint whose abbey of Iona linked Ireland and Scotland and beyond. You can find information here about the events,heritage, educational resources, and suggested themes.
The 7th of December is the traditional birthday of Colmcille, and the commemoration opened officially on the 7th December 2020. Events have taken place in Donegal, Derry in Kells, Argyll, and in the Western Isles, many of them online. There are many partners. New projects are coming forward, adapting, as appropriate, to the constraints of COVID. There will be opportunities to take part in activities throughout 2021, into 2022, and, it is hoped, in years to come.
1500 years ago travel was slow and dangerous, but community and communication were just as real. Iona was not in the centre of any kingdom, but it drew speakers of many languages: Scottish and Irish Gaelic, Pictish, Latin, Welsh and the Anglo-Saxon of Northumbria. The heritage of Colmcille in spiritual matters, in language in the arts and learning spread throughout these islands and into the continent of Europe.
Colmcille 1500 provides an opportunity to explore the heritage of Colmcille, and to build on it, including including the Gaelic of Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. However you choose to celebrate the legacy of Colmcille we hope that you will share your story with the world through various social media channels, on this website and through the use of the Colmcille 1500 logo (see below).
Colmcille 1500 Branding
You are welcome to download and use the Colmcille 1500 logo and brand to celebrate and promote the year of Colmcille 1500 in this Dropbox folder. We would ask that you first read and adhere to the guidelines.
Please use the hashtag #colmcille1500 in all relevant social media campaigns and events.
Here is the logo with dates for your email signature. You can download it here.
Partners
