Columba of Iona

Columba (also known as Columb Cille in Irish) was born in Ireland in 521, descending from a royal lineage. After being educated in several monasteries, he was ordained a priest. He founded numerous monasteries in Ireland, including those at Derry and Kells. In 563, following a conflict or by missionary choice, he left Ireland for Scotland. He settled on the island of Iona, where he founded an abbey that became the nerve center for the evangelization of the Picts and Scots. His Iona Abbey became a hub of culture and learning, exerting a major influence on Celtic Christianity in Scotland, Ireland, and beyond. Columba is also known for his skills as a scribe, his love of books, and his alleged miracles. He died on Iona in 597.