Finbarr of Cork

Saint Finbarr or just simply Finbarr (c. 550–September 25, 623 at Cloyne, Ireland) was the 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 was the son of Amergin of Maigh Seóla and is said to have studied in County Kilkenny where he was renamed "Fionnbharr" (Fairhead in Irish) for the color of his hair.

Finbarr is widely believed to have lived at an island hermitage at Gougane Barra, before founding a monastic settlement and center 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. Roman Catholics and Protestants both venerate St Finbarr. His feast day is September 25.

Other St. Finbarrs

The Catholic Church has five Irish saints named Finbarr. As with Fintan, this is...
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