Dál Riata

Dál Riata, also known as Dalriada, was a Gaelic overkingdom that encompassed parts of western Scotland and northeastern Ireland during the Early Middle Ages. It emerged around the 6th century CE and became a pivotal center for the spread of Gaelic culture, Christianity, and the establishment of the early Scottish state. Its ruling elite and ecclesiastical communities played a central role in the conversion of the Picts to Christianity, and their influence contributed to the formation of the Kingdom of Alba, which would later become the Kingdom of Scotland. The Annals of Ulster and other historical sources provide glimpses into its history, politics, and connections with Ireland. The legacy of Dál Riata is still evident in the cultural and historical landscape of both Scotland and Ireland.