May 16medievalUniversal
Brendan the Navigator
Monk
Sanctified Life
484 — 577
Tralee, Ireland
Also Known As
Brendan of Clonfert
Patronage
sailors,travelers,whales
"Help me to journey beyond the familiar and into the unknown."
One of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland, famous for his legendary seven-year voyage across the Atlantic in search of the 'Isle of the Blessed.' His tale, the 'Navigatio,' inspired explorers like Columbus. He founded many monasteries, including Clonfert.

Historical Legacy
Historical Journey
Historical Summary (Wikidata)
Brendan of Clonfert (c. AD 484 – c. 577) is one of the early Irish monastic saints and one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland. He is also referred to as Brendan the Navigator, Brendan the Voyager, Brendan the Anchorite, and Brendan the Bold. The Irish translation of his name is Naomh Bréanainn or Naomh Breandán. He is mainly known for his legendary voyage to find the "Isle of the Blessed" which is sometimes referred to as "Saint Brendan’s Island". The written narrative of his journey comes from the immram Navigatio Sancti Brendani Abbatis (Voyage of Saint Brendan the Abbot).
Saint Brendan's feast day is celebrated on 16 May by Catholics, Anglicans, and Orthodox Christians.
Historical Depiction

Wikimedia Commons Source
Titles & Roles
• writer• Catholic priest• explorer
Writings
book
Navigatio Sancti Brendani
The Voyage of St. Brendan the Abbot.
Sacred Symbols
ship
Voyage
whale
Nature's Wonder
Life Journey
Early Life
Fostered by St. Ita; educated by St. Erc.
The Turning Point
Setting sail with his monks into the unknown western ocean.
Historical Legacy
Returned to Ireland to found monasteries; died at age 93.