Portrait of Armagh

Armagh is a county steeped in history with evidence of human settlement from c. 5000 BC; at its centre, the important site at Navan Fort and its position at the heart of the Ulster Cycle of mythological tales. In the middle of the county,Armagh city is best known for its association with St Patrick and has remained the centre of Christianity in Ireland since he founded his principal church here in 445AD. It quickly gained a reputation as the City of Saints and Scholars. The major urban area lies to the north-east; Craigavon is a planned town based around the older towns of Lurgan and Portadown. The rest of the county is rural, with small towns and villages sitting among the patchwork of drumlins that cover the county. Known as the Orchard County,Armagh is a perfect size for touring and is at its best during apple blossom time in May. All this and more is featured in over 140 glorious images by expert photographer Darren McLoughlin.