BattlefieldsBattle of Clontarf
Early Medieval

Battle of Clontarf

1014
Dublin, Ireland
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Dublin, Ireland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Leinster, Norse Dublin and Norse allies (Sigurd of Orkney, Brodir of Man)
Forces
Leinster/Norse/Orkney c. 6,000–9,000.
VS
Victor
Brian Boru's forces (Munster/Dal Cais)
Forces
Brian Boru c. 7,000–10,000
Outcome
Irish victory but Brian Boru killed; Viking political power in Ireland broken
The Battle

History & Significance

The most famous battle in Irish history. Brian Boru, High King of Ireland, defeated a coalition of Leinster rebels and their Norse allies from Dublin, Orkney and the Isle of Man. Although the Irish won decisively, Brian was killed in his tent after the battle by the fleeing Norse leader Brodir. Clontarf ended Norse attempts to dominate Ireland politically, though Norse settlers remained in the coastal cities. Brian's death left Ireland without a paramount king and launched a century of dynastic conflict.

Casualties & Losses

Brian Boru killed; Sigurd of Orkney killed; Brodir of Man killed; Murchad (Brian's son) killed; several thousand on both sides

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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