A poem called Pangur Bán, written in the 9th century by an Irish monk about his cat, highlights how cats were kept as pets during the time that the Book of Kells was created. The monks may have kept cats to help preserve the supply of food in the monastery. This practical function is referenced […]

Lions play a key part in the symbolism of the Book of Kells.  According to ancient Christian texts, the lion cub was born dead and was watched over by the lioness for three days until its father arrived on the third day and awakened it. This story is believed to be the inspiration for the […]

Peacocks are integral to the decoration in most of the major pages in the Book of Kells. They appear at line endings, on Canon tables and in key positions next to images of Christ. They are thought to represent Christ’s incorruptibility or immortality, due to the ancient belief that peacock flesh does not decay. Get […]

The use of animals in the Book of Kells is laden with symbolism. For example the snake was perceived as a symbol of Christ’s resurrection: it was ‘reborn’ when it shed its skin. Animals in the Book of Kells is theme for the Book of Kells Creative Competition 2018. People of all ages are invited […]

The theme of the Book of Kells Creative Competition 2018 is Animals in the Book of Kells.  Artists and writers are invited to get inspired by the animals that appear throughout the manuscript and give them a new interpretation. Why not get your creativity flowing by visiting the Book of Kells exhibition where you can view key pages […]

RTE News Anchor and Presenter, Sharon Ní Bheoláin, has joined the judging panel for The Book of Kells Creative Competition 2018. A Trinity graduate of Irish studies, Sharon speaking at the launch of the 2018 competition said: “During my college years I studied the beautiful texts and manuscripts of our early monks and scribes and […]

The Book of Kells Creative Competition 2018 has opened for entries and this year’s theme is animals in the Book of Kells. The deadline to enter is 30th November 2018 and the competition is open to all ages. There are two competition categories Art and Writing. If art is your passion you are invited to […]

Daily talks in the Long Room on preservation activities in the Old Library will take place every weekday at 3pm. Talks last 15 to 20 minutes and are free for ticket holders to the Book of Kells exhibition as well as Trinity College students and staff. What challenges and risks do the books in the […]