Fomoir

Fomoir, also spelled Fomori or Fomorians, are a supernatural race in Irish mythology. They are generally depicted as monstrous beings, often described as giants with grotesque features such as one eye, one arm, or one leg. Their origins are varied, with some traditions suggesting they are descendants of a primal race that inhabited Ireland before the arrival of the Tuatha Dé Danann, the other prominent supernatural race in Irish lore.

The Fomoir are frequently portrayed as antagonists to the Tuatha Dé Danann, representing a force of chaos and destruction. They are known for their raids and oppression of the land and its inhabitants. Significant Fomorian figures include Balor, who possessed a destructive eye, and Nuada, a king of the Tuatha Dé Danann who lost his hand in battle against them. The Fomoir are often associated with the sea and the underworld, suggesting a connection to darker, more primal forces.

Despite their antagonistic role, the Fomoir are not always purely evil. Some accounts depict them as having a complex relationship with the Tuatha Dé Danann, with instances of intermarriage and even alliances. Their defeat by the Tuatha Dé Danann, particularly in the Second Battle of Mag Tuired, is a pivotal event in Irish mythology, marking a shift in power and the establishment of a new order. The Fomoir represent a significant element in the rich tapestry of Irish mythology, embodying primal forces and serving as formidable adversaries in the epic tales.