Saint Finbarr

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Saint Finbarr (c. 550–c. 620) Bishop of Cork in the 6th century and patron saint for the city and diocese of Cork.

Possibly born near Bandon, and originally named Lochan, he is said to have studied in County Kilkenny where he was renamed Fionnbharr (Fairhead in Irish) for the colour of his hair.

Finbarr is widely believed to have lived at an island hermitage at Gougane Barra, before founding a monastic settlement and centre of learning at an Corcach Mór. This settlement was to eventually grow to become the city of Cork.

Varying accounts of Finbarr's life suggest he travelled to Rome, and preached at Barra in Scotland.

Finbarr died at Cloyne in Cork and was buried in Gill Abbey - a site occupied by the present day Church of Ireland Saint Finbarre's Cathedral.

There are several variations on the spelling of Finbarr's name. It will often be spelt as "Finbarre", or as a modern derivation "Finbar". (popular as a masculine name in Cork).

Finbar is an Irish name. Catholics and Protestants both recognise St. Finbarr. His feast day is 25 September.