Bullaun stone in Cappakilleen

Embedded in the bank in the NW quadrant of a possible ecclesiastical enclosure (TN011-031001). According to the landowner the bullaun stone (dims. 0.73m x 0.6m: D 0.3m) is known locally as the 'Fairy Font'. There are two depressions visible (0.32m x 0.28m x 0.14m D; 0.23m x 0.8m D) on the upper surface. The above description is derived from 'The Archaeological Inventory of County Tipperary. Vol. 1 - North Tipperary' compiled by Jean Farrelly and Caimin O'Brien (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2002). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 22 September 2008

Likely dating to the early Christian period, the Bullaun stone in Cappakilleen may have been used for baptisms or ritual water-related practices. Its local name, 'Fairy Font,' suggests a later folklore tradition associating it with fairies or supernatural beings.