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The historic ruins of Monasterboice, or Mainistir Bhuithe in Irish, are of an early Christian settlement in Couty Louth in northern Ireland. It was founded in the late 5th century by Saint Buithe who died around 521. It was an important center of religion and learning until 1142.
The site houses two churches built in the 14th century or later and an earlier round town. However, it is most famous for its 10th century high crosses. Muiredach's High Cross is regarded as the finest high cross in the whole of Ireland. It is named after an abbot, Muiredach mac Domhnaill, who died in 923 and features biblical carvings of both the Old and New Testaments. It has been described as the most beautiful specimen of Celtic stonework now in existence and the crosses at Monasterboice have been stated to be Ireland's greatest contribution to European sculpture.
Donaghadee is a growing town on the northern coast of County Down, six miles from the historic town of Bangor and approximately 20 miles east of Belfast. It lies on the northeast coast of the Ards Peninsula. With a population of about 8,000 inhabitants, Donaghadee is the closest point to Scotland, so close in fact, that the Scottish coast is visible to the naked eye on clear days. The town offers a rich history, having been one of the main ports of entry to the island of Ireland until the 19th Century. It is probably best known for its lighthouse and harbour, which has been a haven for ships for centuries. The harbour has been there since at least the 17th century. Aside from the historical buildings reflecting its rich heritage, the town has a picturesque seafront and a wide range of cafes and restaurants. Among these is Grace Neill's, which opened in 1611 as the 'King's Arms' and claims to be the oldest pub on the island of Ireland, a record officially held by Sean's Bar in the Republic of Ireland.
The other reason Donaghadee may be famous is because of the Donaghadee Male Voice Choir. It was founded in 1932 and began as a small local chorus performing in churches and other local functions. Since then, the Choir has developed and flourished and today is an internationally known Choir having performed on stage, radio and television in the USA and Canada, among other international locations. With a membership of around 70 and a repertoire which embraces both secular and sacred music and ranges from folk and traditional songs to choral favorites and operativ works, it is something not to be missed while visiting Ireland.
