The Con O’Neill Project

The Con O'Neill Project has been brought to fruition through the hard work of Gordon McCoy. The project in East Belfast, celebrates the legacy of Con, the last Gaelic Lord of East Belfast. While he died 401 years ago, his legacy endures in local place names and lore. 

Cairde Turas run an annual Con O'Neill festival which while being held online in 2020, continues to grow and spread the word of Con! The festival programme includes talks, virtual tours, music performance, family-friendly stories, a guided walk and language learning opportunities.

This year’s developments include a new video about the Cregagh Glen that celebrates its ancient status and secret tales. Turas have also unveiled a new art project – Con’s Great Escape – that reimagines Belfast’s actual Game of Thrones.

Most recently, Con's throne has been strenuously researched and painstakingly recreated in what is now a fascinating replica that will be introduced to the public in Summer 2021. 

Turas offer an award-winning Con O'Neil bus tour which takes participants on the main points of interest around East Belfast that tell the story of Con and his truly epic tales. A firm-favourite among historians and culture enthusiasts, local academics and anyone who enjoys hidden history locations with a hint of the mythical about them. 

Be sure to take a picture in Lisnabreeny Fort (Lios na Bruíne) or Fort of the Fairies as this is a magical place guarded by na Síthe. You would be wise to remember​ that they don't like being called Fairies, they much prefer 'Na Daoine Maithe' - The Good People.