About
Once upon a time, in the ancient Celtic lands, the word "Coll" began its journey intertwined with the essence of nature, specifically with the hazel tree. This tale, woven through centuries, unfolds the deep connections between language, nature, and culture.
The story begins with the Old Irish language, where "Coll" was used to name the hazel tree, a plant deeply rooted in Celtic mythology and culture. From this origin, the word is derived from Proto-Celtic *Koslas, which also means "hazel". The hazel tree was not merely a plant but a symbol of wisdom and inspiration, often associated with ancient knowledge and poetic inspiration.
As centuries passed, the significance of the hazel and the word "Coll" evolved but remained embedded in the culture of the Celtic peoples. The hazel tree was considered a source of wisdom, with its nuts believed to impart knowledge and inspiration. Druids, the ancient priests of the Celts, revered the hazel for its connection to knowledge and the Otherworld. They saw the hazel groves as sacred places where one could gain profound insights and visions.
The word "Coll" traveled through time, reaching the Scottish Gaelic language, carrying with it the legacy of the hazel. In Scottish Gaelic, "Coll" continued to refer to the hazel, a testament to the enduring bond between the Celts and this remarkable tree.
In modern times, "Coll" has found new expressions, including its use as a personal name in Scotland and Ireland, embodying the qualities of leadership and wisdom that the hazel symbolizes. The name is a homage to ancient traditions, linking individuals to their Celtic heritage and the natural world. Moreover, the Isle of Coll in the Inner Hebrides, with its natural beauty and ancient resonance, adds another layer to the story of "Coll," reflecting the enduring presence of the Celts and their language in the landscape.
Our logo is a hazel tree and it represents wisdom, hopefully we have the wisdom to grow our small adventure into a very large event.