Séamus Doohan | Walking Donegal: Uncovering the History, Heart, and Soul of Donegal

Connect with Séamus Doohan:

• Website: walkingdonegal.net
• Email: [e-mail]
• Instagram/Socials: @walkingdonegal

In this episode of Pubs & Pints, host Tim sits down with Séamus Doohan, a man whose life is woven into the rugged landscape of Falcarragh, County Donegal. Séamus isn't just a local; he is a storyteller, a walking guide, a historian, and a passionate advocate for the Irish language.

We dive deep into the folklore and reality of Donegal life, from the legendary prophecies of St. Colum Cille to the heartbreaking history of the "Bridge of Tears," where generations of Irish emigrants said their final goodbyes before walking to the ports of Derry. Séamus shares how he transitioned from a "football fanatic" to a professional mountain guide, helping visitors uncover secret waterfalls, ancient ruins, and the medicinal secrets of local wildflowers.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Pub Culture of Falcarragh: Comparing the social life of the 1990s to today and the magic of a "singing circle" at the Shamrock Lounge.
• The Bridge of Tears: A moving look at the path taken by those leaving Ireland for America and how Séamus helps their descendants reconnect with that emotion today.
• St. Colum Cille & Ancient Manuscripts: The history of the "Dove of the Church," the first-ever copyright battle, and the sacred Cathach manuscript.
• The Poisoned Glen & Mistranslations: How a simple linguistic error turned the "Heavenly Glen" into the "Poisoned Glen."
• The Irish Language Revival: Séamus’s journey with Gaelic and his experience guiding famous polyglots like Ari Smith (Xiaomanyc) through the Donegal Gaeltacht.
• Archaeology and Art: A look at Séamus’s latest passion—painting the shadows and light of old Irish customs.

Whether you have Donegal roots or simply love a good story told over a pint, this conversation with Séamus Doohan is a journey through the heart of the "Forgotten County."

Featured Links & Publications:

• Condé Nast Traveler: Donegal, Ireland: A Land of Myth and Music
• France TV Feature: Watch Séamus on France TV
• Walking Donegal on YouTube: Watch the Landscape
• The Irish Language Journey: Séamus and Ari Smith (Xiaomanyc)

About Pubs & Pints: Join Tim as he explores the history, the people, and the stories behind the world's most iconic Irish pubs and the characters who make them home.

#PubsAndPints #Donegal #Ireland #WalkingDonegal #IrishHistory #Gaelic #Falcarragh #IrishPodcast

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