Emyvale

Known as being the biggest village in Monaghan, Emyvale is situated 11km north of Monaghan town on the main N2 road to Aughnacloy. Emyvale has a rich history, particularly for being the stronghold of the McKennas, a powerful Celtic family. Originally from Meath, it is recorded that they settled in the area. By the 12th century they had established a semi-independent type of ‘buffer state’ between the O ‘Neill’s to their north and the McMahons to their south. The earliest recorded Chieftain was a Patrick McKenna who fought alongside Hugh O‘Neill at the battles of Clontibret in 1595, the Yellow Ford in 1598 and Kinsale in 1601.