Monan was a Christian missionary, likely of Gaelic origin, who operated in Fife during the 6th century. Historical accounts of his life are limited, but he is believed to have resided at a monastery in Pittenweem before moving to a cave located near the current site of St Monans Church. Some traditions link him to the Isle of May, while others suggest he was the Bishop of Clonfert, Moinenn, who fled to Scotland to find refuge during periods of Viking devastation.