Product Description

Discover the extraordinary story of Gráinne O’Malley (Grace O’Malley), the sixteenth-century seafarer and Gaelic leader whose life became one of Ireland’s most enduring stories of the Atlantic coast.

Born around 1530 in County Mayo, Gráinne came from a powerful seafaring family and became closely associated with the sea, trade and the Gaelic lordship of the O’Malleys. Her stronghold at Rockfleet Castle remains closely connected with her story and the landscape of Clew Bay.

In 1593, Gráinne travelled to England to meet Queen Elizabeth I. Their meeting became one of the most famous encounters in Irish history. The two women negotiated directly, and Gráinne secured the release of members of her family.

Known in English tradition as the “Pirate Queen,” Gráinne O’Malley has been remembered in many different ways — as a seafarer, leader, trader and formidable figure of sixteenth-century Ireland.

This RareGer card celebrates her connection with the sea, Mayo and Ireland’s Gaelic heritage, while remembering a woman whose story has continued to capture imaginations for generations.

The sea was her road. Ireland was her home.

RareGer — Remember Enough.

Digital download: A5 high-resolution PDF + high-resolution JPG.