AINE (pronounced AW-neh), is also known as Aine Marina, Aine of Knockaine and the Fairy Queen of Munster. It is believed she lived in Knockany (Cnoc Aine or "Aine's Hill") and is one of the most well-known goddesses in Celtic mythology.
Aine was a goddess of love, growth, crops, cattle, fire and the sun; and was worshipped for her power to bestow fertility, abundance and prosperity. She is credited for giving meadowseet its delicate scent. Some also claim that she was a minor moon goddess, or that her identity may have later become merged with the Goddess Anu.
Aine is still revered throughout Ireland. To modern-day Pagans, she is a protector of women and a ruler of the faeries known as the Dinnshenchas. She is also called upon for Midsummer rites as a protectress of animals and the environment, and for aid in keeping promises, She can also aid in banishing spells or any magick ruled by the sun. She is strongly identified with the Summer Solstice, on which night torchlight processions are still held in honor of her.
Aine is said to have mated with several humans, creating a magical race. She was raped by Ailill Olum, a Munster king, but her vast magickal arts destroyed him for his violation of her.
