Cross-slab in Cloch Eidhneach

Found c. 1930 on early ecclesiastical site of Cill Lachtaín (CO069-032----) and donated to UCC Museum (Power 1931, 59). Now in possession of Cork Public Museum. Roughly lozenge-shaped slab (L 0.68m; 0.35m x 0.08m), with simple Greek cross, enclosed by a circle, incised on one face. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 3: Mid Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

Probably dating to the early Christian period (5th–9th century), this cross-slab may have served a liturgical or commemorative function, possibly associated with the nearby ecclesiastical site of Cill Lachtaín. Its form and context suggest a Christian symbolic or ritual use, though specific folklore or dedications are not recorded.