Bullaun stone in Gallen

Situated on a slight rise with river to the E. The ecclesiastical remains consist of an a medieval church (OF014-029008-), possible abbey church (OF014-029001-), graveyard (OF014-029002-) early Christian cross-slabs (OF014-029003-) and a bullaun stone (OF014-029005-). Bullaun stone was discovered during an excavation and is now on display in the centre of the excavated church (OF014-029008-) (Kendrick 1939, 1-20). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Offaly' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 23 May 2011

Likely dating to the early Christian period, the bullaun stone may have been used for ritual purposes, such as the anointing of the sick with holy water. Such stones are often associated with monastic or ecclesiastical sites and may have had both religious and folkloric significance.