Donegal etymology

Etymology and Meaning

The name "Donegal" is derived from the Irish language phrase "Dún na nGall," which means "Fort of the Foreigners" or "Fort of the Norsemen."

Origin

The name refers to a fort that was built by Vikings in the 8th or 9th century on the northern coast of Ireland, in present-day County Donegal. The Vikings, who were known as "Gall" in Irish, used the fort as a base for their raids and explorations.

Historical Background

The Vikings established a settlement in Donegal known as "Dubh Linn Gall," or "Black Pool of the Foreigners," which later evolved into the city of Dublin. The Vikings ruled Donegal for several centuries, before being defeated by the Irish in the 11th century.

County Donegal

In the 16th century, the area known as Donegal became an official county of Ireland. The name "Donegal" was adopted for the county, referencing its historical association with the Vikings.

Other Names

In Irish, Donegal is also known as "Tír Chonaill," meaning "Land of Conall," named after Conall Gulban, a legendary prince who is believed to have settled in Donegal in the 5th century.

Donegal relate terms

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