March 17th marks the day of the feast of Saint Patrick and the lasting pride of the Irish. The yearly celebration commemorates the establishment of Christianity in Ireland, but today’s observances serves as a wider appreciation for Celtic culture and history. Modern American “rituals” have evolved to be relatively crass, but as the national holiday of the Republic of Ireland, the celebration of St. Patrick’s Day is a tradition steeped in rich history religion.

Until the spread of Christianity on the island, Gaelic Ireland was a culture based on a structure of paganism and kinship. Gaelic social order was structured according to bloodline clans, each led by a patriarchal figure. The prehistoric society was founded upon a belief in many god and goddess figures, including the supposed existence of divine spirits within every living creature. The days of polytheism in Gaelic Ireland came to an end with the introduction of Christianity around the 5th century.

The spread of Christianity in Ireland also brought a shift from oral tradition to a written culture, accompanied by the introduction of literature. Christianity of course also gave Ireland its patron saint, St. Patrick. It is believed that St. Patrick is responsible for removing snakes from the island of Ireland, as well as for his widespread teachings of the Holy Trinity.

With the use of the symbolic three-leafed shamrock, Patrick explained the multifaceted concept of the Christian God as being at once the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The shamrock has been a lasting symbol throughout Gaelic history, and is still a token of the now largely Catholic island of Ireland.

The rich culture of the Celtics has been celebrated throughout history, particularly in the form of art and literature. Honor the legacy of St. Patrick’s teachings with a Celtic Power of Three Necklace, a design inspired by the meshing of gaelic culture and artisanry with the Christian Trinity.

You can also browse our full collection of gaelic goods for celtic style weapons, jewelry, and accessories. Whether you are of full-blood Irish descent or just “Irish” this time of year, we’ve got what you need!