c. 484–577
Saint Brendan the Navigator
One of the 'Twelve Apostles of Ireland,' known for his legendary sea voyage in search of the 'Isle of the Blessed.'
Biography
Brendan was born around 484 in Ireland and became one of the so-called 'Twelve Apostles of Ireland,' founding monasteries and carrying out missionary work in his homeland.
He is remembered in tradition as 'the Navigator' for his legendary voyage by boat with fellow monks in search of the 'Isle of the Blessed' across the Atlantic; the account of this journey, known as the 'Voyage of Saint Brendan,' became one of the most popular texts of the medieval West. He died in the town of Annaghdown around 577.