Cross in Sceilg Mhichíl

This damaged stone cross (L 0.21m; Wth 0.11m; T 0.03m) was found in an enclosure (KE104A001013-) on the South Peak of Sceilg Mhichíl (Horn et al. 1990, 32). It has a rounded head and one partially broken short arm with a rounded angle beneath. The other arm is missing but its rounded angle is intact. The lower end of the shaft is partially broken. This cross has been allocated the SMR number KE066-215---- at its present location in the OPW, National Monuments Depot, Killarney (O'Sullivan and Sheehan 1996, 287, no. 24). See attached figures 21, 22 and 23 taken from Horn, W., White Marshall, J. and Rourke, G. 1990 The forgotten hermitage of Skellig Michael. Compiled by: Elizabeth Byrne, Ursula Egan and Sheila Ronan, Archaeological Survey Unit, University College, Cork. Revised by: Caimin O'Brien Date of revised upload: 2 March 2022

The cross from Sceilg Mhichíl was likely built by early medieval Christian monks, probably between the 7th and 9th centuries, and reflects a typical Irish high cross style, though its specific dedication is unknown. It is significant as an artifact from one of Ireland’s most important early Christian monastic sites, highlighting the island's monastic and artistic heritage.