From a very young age, I wanted to be an Egyptologist when I grew up. I’m glad that I never had the chance but it didn’t stop my fascination with Egypt throughout many years of researching their “ancient” history.

What does that have to do with Scota?

Well – according to legend Scota (from whom Scotland was allegedly named) was the daughter of an Egyptian Pharaoh who fled her home country and somehow landed in Ireland.

I’ve read many “alternative/new” histories about Scota and most lean towards her being the daughter of Akhenaton and Nefertiti.

Her name was Meritaten.

I don’t disagree with this theory. In fact it makes sense…apart from the timeline!

What strikes me most is the similarity in certain female names.

Meritaten, Maïa, Mary, Maria, Marie, Moya, Máire, Miriam, Mhàiri.

When I expand on this theory of mine, it will call Celtic Irish/Scots/Welsh history into question. Especially as my dates are between 1150 and 1180 and not zillions of years B.C.

But. BUT – everything lines up with a certain Byzantine Royal Family :o)