Allihies Autumn School

An Chailleach – Hag, Healer, Holy Woman

Immerse Yourself in the Wisdom of the Cailleach and discover the gifts and insights that she has to offer modern society.

10th – 12th October 2025 | Allihies, Beara Peninsula, West Cork

Born in Cambridge, Rachel Parry has lived in Allihies for many years…

Paddy Bushe writes in Irish and in English….

Dr Condren is director of Woman Spirit Ireland….

Dr Karen Ward is an Irish Celtic Scholar, Shaman and Writer…

Daniel Butler is an Irish-speaking writer and director….

Colette Allen worked in Local Studies at the County Library….

Catherine Marshall is a curator, art writer….

Carina is a writer and storyteller from Garnish…

Programme Schedule

Date & Time	Speaker/Title	Description
Friday 10th, 7:30 p.m.	Dr Mary Condren – “The Wisdom traditions of the Irish Cailleach, her family and her international sisters”	Explores the concept of the Cailleach, her cultural displacement, and global parallels. Highlights her significance in Irish tradition and modern relevance. Plus: Rachel Parry’s Art Exhibition and Reception – Featuring sculptural pieces and black and white pinhole images themed on The Cailleach.
Saturday 11th, 9:30 a.m.	Paddy Bushe – “Behind the Veil: an Chailleach Bhéara as a poetic shapeshifter”	Discusses the Cailleach Bhéara’s various representations from mythology to contemporary literature and film. Mentions figures such as Yeats, Leanne O’Sullivan, Patrick Pearse, and more.
Saturday 11th, 11:00 a.m.	Visit to Kilcatherine – Dr Karen Ward & Carina McNally	Visit to the Hag of Beara Stone and Kilcatherine Church. Rituals and storytelling around the sacred site’s history, spiritual significance, and legacy of holy women.
Saturday 11th, 2:30 p.m.	Colette Allen – “The Placenames of Buí, the otherworld female”	Explores placenames associated with the Cailleach, their mythological and geographical significance across Ireland and Scotland.
Saturday 11th, 3:30 p.m.	Short Film: Bean Feasa + Panel Discussion	Film introduced by Director Daniel Butler. Followed by panel discussion with Dr Mary Condren and Paddy Bushe.
Saturday 11th, 8:00 p.m.	Crow’s Old Gold – Performed by Strive Theatre	Dramatic performance inspired by themes of the Cailleach.
Sunday 12th, 10:30 a.m.	Catherine Marshall – Na Cailleacha: “The School of Hibernia (after Raphael)”	Presentation on reclaiming female voices in education and philosophy. Includes visual presentation of the School of Hibernia art project.
Sunday 12th, 12:00 p.m.	Dr Karen Ward – “How is the Cailleach relevant in our lives now?”	Interactive talk helping attendees integrate the spirit and wisdom of the Cailleach into everyday life after the event.
LUNCH BREAKS: Saturday & Sunday (after midday sessions)

Join us in the wilds of Beara this October.

VENUE

Allihies Copper Mine Museum & Kilcatherine Sacred Sites

Cloan, Beara, Co. Cork

TICKETS & BOOKING

Weekend Pass: €150

Includes access to all talks, site visit, performance and lunches.

Booking Options:

Online – Scan the QR code or click here to pay.
Call – 089 262 3976
Limited capacity – Early booking is highly recommended