Mídhe

Mídhe was a kingdom in ancient Ireland, located in the east of the island. It was one of the five provincial kingdoms of Ireland, alongside Ulster, Leinster, Munster, and Connacht. The traditional territory of Mídhe encompassed much of modern-day County Meath and parts of County Westmeath, County Longford, County Offaly, and County Cavan. Its capital was located at the Hill of Tara, which held significant religious and political importance as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland.

The kingdom of Mídhe is often associated with the Tuatha Dé Danann, a mythological race of pre-Christian Ireland. Historical accounts suggest that Mídhe was established by the legendary figure of Cormac mac Airt, who is credited with consolidating power and establishing Tara as the royal center. Throughout its history, Mídhe was a strategically important region, frequently involved in conflicts and alliances with neighboring kingdoms. The kingdom's influence waned over time, particularly with the arrival of the Normans in the 12th century, although the concept of Mídhe persisted in some forms. The name Mídhe is believed to derive from the Old Irish word for "middle," reflecting its central geographical position within Ireland.