Died c. 585. Many challenge the existence of Fanchea because of
the fantastic stories related about her in the life of
Saint Enda, who is generally regarded as
the father of Irish monasticism. Others argue that it is possible
to set aside items of a fabulous character and to see her as an
early nun with special capabilities as a directress of souls. In
either case, Fanchea is said to be a native of Clogher, who
persuaded her brother, Saint Enda, to become a monk. She was the
abbess-founder of a convent at Rossory, Fermanagh, and was buried
at Killane (Benedictines, Encyclopedia, Montague).
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