Sky’s the limit for high-flying pilgrims

Q&A: David Ross

In Ireland, the pilgrimage dates to early Christian scholars who travelled to Clonmacnoise, and medieval penitents who journeyed to Lough Derg, Holycross and Glendalough. The more adventurous set sail for the Skelligs or climbed Croagh Patrick barefoot.

Despite this venerable tradition, many of these pathways have fallen into disuse. Ireland is no longer an important destination for spiritually motivated travellers.