Cross

Situated at the crest of the E-facing slope of Tara Hill and within the graveyard (ME031-033034-), with the church site (ME031-033071-) just to the S. Carved on the E face of an upright standing stone aligned N-S that has a rectangular cross-section (dims 0.58m x 0.26m; max. H 1.88m). The stone is dressed back on both sides as if it was meant to fit in an architectural structure (Andersen 1977, 152). The possible standing stone (ME031-033019-) is c. 2.5m to the ESE. It is described by Freitag (2004, 143) as a figure, ‘carved in high relief on lower half of stone, and because much worn difficult to interpret in detail. Big jug ears; facial features simple indentations. Arms in front of body, joined together in vaguely discernible gesture towards lower abdomen; left leg nearly straight, the other bent inwards.’ See attached screenshots of 3D model of Sheela-na-gig created by Digital Heritage Age. 3D model can be accessed on the Sketchfab website at: https://skfb.ly/6qPHs The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Meath' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1987). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of revision: 27 January 2015

Probably dates to the early Christian period, given its cross-carving and location near a historic church site. It may have served as a memorial or waymark, and could be associated with local Christian traditions or monastic activity in the Tara Hill area.