Battlefields›Battle of Mag Rath
Early Medieval

Battle of Mag Rath

637
Down, Ireland
Also known as: Battle of Moira · Battle of Maigh Rath
Era
Early Medieval
Battle Type
Pitched Battle
Location
Down, Ireland
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Congal Caech and Dál Riata
Forces
Congal/Dál Riata coalition.
VS
Victor
Domhnall mac Aedo (High King of Ireland)
Forces
c. 5,000–12,000 per side; High King's Irish force
Outcome
Irish victory; Dál Riata's Irish ambitions destroyed; Scottish branch permanently separated
The Battle

History & Significance

The Battle of Mag Rath in County Down was the decisive event that permanently separated the Scottish Dál Riata from the Irish Dál Riata. King Congal Caech, supported by Dál Riatan forces including Dómhnall Brecc, was defeated and killed. After this defeat the two branches of Dál Riata went their separate ways. Scotland's political identity was being forged in this period of catastrophic warfare.

Casualties & Losses

Congal Caech killed; Dál Riatan expedition destroyed

Questions & Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

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