Church (in ruins), Cloncreen

Situated on flat land with extensive views in all directions. Poorly preserved remains of a nave (int. dims. 6m N-S; 9.4m E-W) and chancel (int. dims. 4m N-S ; 5m E-W; wall T 0.7m) church constructed with uncoursed large roughly shaped stones. No architectural features visible. Large breach (Wth 2m) in the N wall possibly belongs to destroyed door. Graveyard (OF019-004001-) contains 19th and 18th-century headstones with modern extension to W. Probable early medieval church. Early medieval church built with limestone rubble. Nave (ext. dims. 10.75m E-W x 7.5m N-S) and narrower chancel (5.5m N-S x 5.6m E-W) apparently contemporary since there is no evidence to the contrary. No architectural features to be seen. Gap in W end of S wall probably represents remains of doorway. A test excavation was carried out by John Kavanagh of Icon Archaeology Ltd under licence No. 08E0351 at a greenfield site (NGR 25906/22428) at Cloncreen, Clonbologue, Co. Offaly, prior to the construction of a single domestic dwelling opposite the site of a church and graveyard (OF019–004----). During the course of the excavation a single narrow gully and fire-spot were uncovered. These features were resolved under licence 08E0894 (Bennett 2011, 298). During the course of the excavation a single narrow gully and fire-spot were uncovered. Both features were cleaned, recorded and left in situ. No datable evidence was recovered (Bennett 2011, 298). A test excavation was carried out by John Kavanagh of Icon Archaeology Ltd under licence No. 08E0893 at a greenfield site at Cloncreen, Clonbologue, Co. Offaly, prior to the construction of a house opposite the site of a church and graveyard (OF019–004). During the course of the test excavation a single plough furrow was uncovered. An excavation is scheduled for 2009 (Bennett 2011, 298). 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. Compiled by Caimin O'Brien Date of upload/revision: 10 November 2011

A local church or high cross; wider significance not recorded.