Slieve Donard
Slieve Donard is the highest mountain in Northern Ireland and stands at 850 metres (2,790 feet).
The medal is die-cast and crafted from zinc alloy with antique nickel plating and has a rugged look with the mountain and words themselves in 3D. The reverse of the medal is flat and suitable for engraving.
‘Norn Iron’
Celebrating the Heritage of Northern Ireland
Our unique medal ribbon is 2.5cm wide by 45cm long (total ribbon size is 90cm) and the colour bands signify the main colours of the Saltire of St Patrick which forms part of the ‘Union Jack’.
The United Kingdom’s flag, also known as the Union Jack or Union Flag, symbolises the union of different nations under one sovereign. It combines the crosses of England, Scotland, and Ireland (specifically Northern Ireland). The flag is composed of St. George’s Cross (England), St. Andrew’s Saltire (Scotland), and St. Patrick’s Saltire (Ireland).
Celebrating the Heritage of Slieve Donard
Ancient and Mythological Significance
● The mountain is named after St. Donard (Domhanghart), a follower of St. Patrick, who is said to have lived as a hermit on the summit in the 5th century.
● Before Christianity, it was likely a sacred site in pagan Irish mythology, possibly associated with the Celtic god Slieve Snaght (“Snow Mountain”).
● A Neolithic passage tomb (similar to Newgrange) is located near the summit, suggesting ritual importance over 5,000 years ago.
Medieval and Christian Era
● A small oratory (chapel) was built on the summit in St. Donard’s time, with remnants still visible today.
● The mountain became a pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages, with a tradition of climbing it on Garland Sunday (last Sunday in July).
Modern History
In the 19th century, the Mourne Wall was constructed, passing over Slieve Donard’s summit (built 1904–1922 to enclose a water catchment area).
Today, it’s a popular hiking destination, offering stunning views of the Irish Sea and surrounding mountains.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.