Innisfallen itself is hallowed ground and this can be felt on landing. It is serene, peaceful and very holy. It was not always thus. In the 6th century this was the very edge of the known world. In fact, the known world wasn't so great as the Roman Empire had fallen some 200 years before and Europe was awash with barbarians. As now, Innisfallen was the place to go to get away from it all. This is what Saint Fionán thought when he founded a leper colony here. It was perfect for prayer, reflection and study. One thing led to another and, within a short period, Innisfallen became the first University in Europe in over 800 years. Princes from all over Europe studied on this tiny island resulting in overflow settlements at
Aghadoe and Muckross Abbey. At this time the lake was given the name of Lough Leane, which means "Lake of Learning". It provided the inspiration for The Knights of Innisfallen, who are said to still guard the island. The Annals of Innisfallen were written here between 1015 and 1320 by a succession of 39 monks. Written in Irish mixed with Latin, they give a history of the world to the time of St. Patrick, then they concentrate mainly on Irish affairs. This makes them important historical documents. They were brought to England in 1686 and are now kept in the Bodleian library in Oxford where they are not on public display. Perhaps someday they will come home.
This trip is a must in Killarney.
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