What is recorded here

Half a metre of grey stone rises through a flower bed on high ground in Rathdrum, its shallow cup still holding small offerings from travellers who believe it can ease suffering. The destroyed cairn at its southern edge suggests people marked the place for generations before the stones scattered. Whoever first set a coin or ribbon into that hollow likely watched the wide Offaly distance and wondered whether the land itself was listening.

Large bullaun stone located on top of high ground with good extensive views with destroyed cairn (OF009-027001-) immediately to the S. According to the landowner people from all over Ireland come to visit this stone because of its curative powers. The stone is embedded in a flower bed, the visible portion of the stone (H 0.5m; top diam. 0.8m) has a hollow depression (Wth 0.3m; D 0.3m) which contains several votive offerings. 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 medieval period, the bullaun stone was traditionally used for the ritualistic preparation of communion bread. Its location on high ground and continued visitation suggest it held spiritual or symbolic significance in both ancient and more recent folklore.

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.