Cross-inscribed pillar in Cottlestown

Situated on a WSW-facing slope in poor pasture. Large D-shaped area (SL022-010001-). In the SE quadrant is a slightly raised subrectangular area (dims. 26m NW-SE; 21m NE-SW) enclosed by the largely grassed-over remains of a low wall of stone and earth (H 0.1m - 0.35m). In its NW corner, within a hollow, is a tall, rectangular pillar stone (H 1.62m; dims. 0.21m x 0.18m). A small Maltese cross is inscribed in the upper portion of its SW face. Also within this sub-enclosure are numerous low upright stones which presumably mark burials (SL022-010002-). Compiled by: Patrick F. O'Donovan Date of upload: 19 January 2011

Likely dating to the Early Christian period, the cross-inscribed pillar in Cottlestown may have served a religious or commemorative function, reflecting the spread of Christianity in the region. Such stones often bore symbolic carvings linked to local saints or territorial markers.