Brendan of Birr was a prominent 6th-century Irish monastic saint and abbot. Born into a noble Munster family, he studied at Clonard Abbey, where he became one of the Twelve Apostles of Ireland. He is often called Saint Brendan the Elder to differentiate him from his contemporary, Brendan the Navigator. Known for his spiritual insight and hospitality, he founded the monastery at Birr around 540. He was a close associate of Columba, notably defending him during the synod of Meltown to prevent his excommunication.