Ailbheanns

Ailbheanns, also known as Albina or Elbe, are a group of celtic goddesses worshipped in ancient Ireland. The goddess Ailbhe is mentioned in several Irish myths, and her sisters are often referred to collectively as the Ailbheanns. Little is known about the specific roles and characteristics of these goddesses, as records of their worship and mythology are limited.

In some accounts, Ailbhe is described as the mother of several significant figures in Irish mythology, including the Hint Poetic figure, Condach. The Ailbheanns were likely associated with fertility, war, and wisdom, like many other celtic goddesses. They may have been worshipped in a variety of forms, including as a trinity of sisters.

It's also worth noting that the mythology and worship of the Ailbheanns have been influenced by the patronage of Saint Aidan, an Irish patron saint of Britain who popularized the veneration of Saint Albina. This influence has likely contributed to the distortion of the original mythology surrounding the Ailbheanns.

Archaeological and literary evidence suggests that the cult of the Ailbheanns continued to flourish in certain parts of Ireland during the early Christian period. However, the lack of records and the influence of Catholicism during this time likely contributed to the decline of the Ailbheanns' role in Irish mythology.

The legacy of the Ailbheanns can be seen in various Irish myths, festivals, and place names. They are often mentioned alongside other important figures in Irish mythology, including major female deities such as Brigid and Niamh.