6 Unbelievable Facts About St. Patrick

 6 Unbelievable Facts About St. Patrick

1. Born in Britain

Historians generally believe that St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, was born in Britain (not Ireland) near the end of the 4th century.

2. No Snakes Around

For St. Patrick, there were no snakes around.

In fact, research suggests snakes never occupied the Emerald Isle in the first place. There are no signs of snakes in the country’s fossil record.

3. Leprechauns

It is Likely Based on Celtic Fairies.

The red-haired, green-clothed Leprechaun is commonly associated with St. Patrick’s Day. The original Irish name for these figures of folklore is “lobaircin,” meaning “small-bodied fellow.”

4. The Shamrock

It was Considered a Sacred Plant.

It was called the “seamroy” by the Celts and was considered a sacred plant that symbolized the arrival of spring.

5. First Celebration

The first St. Patrick’s Day celebration in the United States was held in Boston (1737).

6. Shortest Parade Day

The world’s shortest St. Patrick’s Day parade is held in an Irish village. It lasts only 100 yards, between the village’s two pubs.