The Tuatha Dé Danann: Gods, Ancestors, or Something Else Entirely?

Who were the Tuatha Dé Danann? Were they ancient gods, remembered ancestors, supernatural beings – or something more complex and mysterious? Join author, researcher and Mythical Ireland founder Anthony Murphy for an immersive one-day exploration of Ireland’s most enigmatic mythological race, held in the intimate and historic surroundings of Glebe House at Dowth, in the heart of the Boyne Valley. Over the course of the day, Anthony will guide participants through the great stories and enduring questions surrounding the Tuatha Dé Danann: their mysterious origins, their arrival in Ireland, the four magical treasures, the Battles of Moytura, and the remarkable figures who dominate their mythology. We will encounter Nuadu, king of the silver arm; Lugh, master of every art; the Dagda, keeper of abundance and wisdom; Brigid, associated with poetry, healing and craft; the powerful and enigmatic Mórrígan; and many others. Drawing upon the medieval Irish manuscripts, archaeology, landscape, placenames and more than two decades of research, Anthony will examine how these stories developed and what they might preserve of ancient Irish belief, memory and identity. This will not simply be a retelling of the myths. It will be an opportunity to look closely at the original traditions, explore their contradictions, and consider the central question: Were the Tuatha Dé Danann gods, ancestors, or something else entirely? WHAT THE DAY WILL INCLUDE • The identity and origins of the Tuatha Dé Danann • The four cities and the four great treasures • Their arrival in Ireland and confrontation with the Fir Bolg • Nuadu and the meaning of the wounded king • The rise of Bres and the oppression of the Tuatha Dé Danann • Lugh’s arrival at Tara and his many skills • The Second Battle of Moytura and the defeat of Balor • The Dagda, Brigid, the Mórrígan and other leading figures • The retreat into the sídhe and the enduring legacy of the Tuatha Dé Danann • Time for questions and group discussion COURSE MATERIALS Each participant will receive comprehensive illustrated printed notes to accompany the day and support further reading and exploration afterwards. WHO IS THE COURSE FOR? No previous knowledge of Irish mythology is required. The course is suitable both for newcomers and for those already familiar with the stories who would like to explore them in greater depth. PRACTICAL INFORMATION Date: Saturday 26th September 2026 Time: 10am–5pm Venue: Glebe House, Dowth, County Meath (A92 PY64) Tutor: Anthony Murphy Price: €195 per person Capacity: Strictly limited to 18 participants WHAT TO BRING Please bring a packed lunch, a notebook and pen, and any personal refreshments you may require. Tea, coffee and light pastries will be provided during the day. Please note that lunch is not provided. Because places are strictly limited, advance booking is essential. Cancellation and Refund Policy Cancellations made at least 14 days before the course will receive a full refund. Cancellations made within 14 days are non-refundable; however, your booking may be transferred to another person if you notify Mythical Ireland in advance. If the course is sold out and we successfully resell your cancelled place, a full refund will be provided. Refunds cannot be provided for non-attendance. If Mythical Ireland cancels the course, participants will receive a full refund of the course fee. If the course is rescheduled, participants may transfer their booking to the new date or request a full refund. Mythical Ireland cannot accept responsibility for travel, accommodation or other personal expenses. This policy does not affect your statutory consumer rights.