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Architectural fragment in Rathmelton

Architectural fragment

What is recorded here

Two bevelled medieval blocks sit outside the Ramelton parish church, holding a lion biting a vine-leaf and two opposing beasts with conjoined heads. They may have come from Tullyaughnish Old Church, yet their true origin and purpose remain unknown. A parallel carving exists at Magherabeg Friary, suggesting a shared regional craft rather than a unique local miracle. The lions and beasts do not explain themselves; they only refuse to be forgotten.
Outside the door of the Church of Ireland parish church in Ramelton are two medieval carved blocks. Both bear relief carving of 15th/16th century character and their upper sections are bevelled and dressed. Though believed to have been removed from Tullyaughnish Old Church (DG046-005002-) their original provenance and function are unknown. One bears the representation of a lion passant reguardant biting a stylised vine-leaf; another vine-leaf projects from its bifurcated tail. Two opposing beasts sejant with conjoined cat-like head guardant are carved on the other block; both tails terminate in a stylised vineleaf. There is a parallel carving from Magherabeg Friary at St. Ernans House (DG019-002 and DG036-033). The above description was derived from the 'Archaeological Survey of County Donegal. A description of the field antiquities of the County from the Mesolithic Period to the 17th century.' Compiled by: Brian Lacey with Eamon Cody, Claire Cotter, Judy Cuppage, Noel Dunne, Vincent Hurley, Celie O'Rahilly, Paul Walsh and Seán Ó Nualláin (Lifford: Donegal County Council, 1983). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated. Date of upload: 22 September 2008

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Recorded monument

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