Cross-inscribed pillar in Gallen

National Monument No. 504. Early Christian monastery founded by St. Canoc in 492. Erect slab (H 2.5m; T 0.15m; Wth 0.8m) with projecting rounded tenon with rounded perforation just below. Decorated on one face only which is divided into two panels decorated with interlaced cross and confronted animals with interlaced tails surrounded by a fret pattern (Kendrick 1939, 1-20). Cross was discovered during an excavation and is now on display in the centre of the excavated church (OF014-029008-) (Kendrick 1939, 1-20). 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. Inventory of Carved Stone ID 000028 Date of upload: 23 May 2011

Erected during the Early Christian period, likely 7th to 9th century, the cross-inscribed pillar is associated with the monastery of St. Canoc and may have had a liturgical or commemorative function. The carving reflects the fusion of Christian and prehistoric artistic traditions in early Irish monastic sites.