Church in An Tsráid

The graveyard (DG080-013009-) here at Glencolumbkille Church of Ireland (National Monument number 139 along with associated sites) is said to occupy the site of an ancient ecclesiastical site founded by St. Colmcille. It has been said (Herity 1971, 14) that some traces of a circular enclosure (DG080-013003-) survives although no sign of these were noted during the survey. A modern church stands within the graveyard just N of the site of a church pulled down in 1828. The older church (DG080-013004-) is said to have been 52ft x 21ft with walls 3ft thick and 12ft to 14ft high. It is said to have had a vaulted, arched tower at the W end (DHS 691). (2) Just S of the present church is the modern entrance to a Man-made underground passage (DG080-013002-).. This site occupies the most prominent position on the floor of Glencolumbkille valley. It is situated on a small height surrounded by fair pasture land.

The church in An Tsráid is traditionally associated with St. Colmcille and is thought to have been founded in the 6th century. It is part of a significant early Christian site in Glencolumbkille, reflecting the spread of monastic Christianity in western Ireland.