European Focus Village: Things you didn't know about Ireland...Part 1

Think you know all there is to know about the Emerald Isle? We're not saying we're experts here at European Focus (unless the question is where are the best places to stay and see in Ireland. Then, why yes, we are experts). But after years of leading tours Jim and Jenean have picked up several gold coins of knowledge. This month we are proud to present to you:

Things You Didn't Know About Ireland...Part 1

A Little Something About Ogham Stones

Ogham is an ancient form of writing inscribed in Ireland during the first century. Read from bottom to top, the alphabet is comprised of several interlocking slashes across a central line (or "stave"). Each letter also represents a tree or plant. As the ancient Celts held a strong belief in the mysticism of nature this held a symbolism of its own. For example, the symbol for B also symbolized the birch tree. The birch tree itself represented fertility. So by inscribing a word with the letter B you were also imparting a message of fertility and healing.

Here is an example of the alphabet...however, just like learning French, it's not as easy as pulling words out of a French to English dictionary to make a sentence. There are certain rules in the way these letters come together to form words.

As they were inscribed more than one thousand years ago remnants of Ogham are now only found on ancient stones. Like many things from old civilizations scholars say they "aren't completely sure what Ogham stones were originally used for" to cover up the fact that they are, however, "pretty sure" and it's something as unexciting as grave or territory markers.

Still, in addition to common uses the stones may have played a significant role in Celtic ceremonies. Jenean has even said that when giving tours to the ancient ruins she can feel an "energy" radiating off of them.

As with all things cool from Europe, we've found a way to bring them into the store for your enjoyment.

Now available for March: Handmade Ogham Wishes by Ethel Kelly, handmade in Ireland. $34 each. Limited availability, so stop in today!