What is recorded here

Beneath the west doorway of the Ballinrobe abbey, excavators uncovered a cracked limestone slab bearing a narrow cross with round terminals. The stone had waited in darkness since the medieval era, its rough chamfered edges testifying to age and handling. It now stands beneath the east window, relocated but unbroken in meaning, inviting visitors to trace the incised line and imagine the hands that shaped it.

Discovered beneath W doorway of abbey (MA118-022002-) during excavations, 1992. Now set beneath E window, in abbey interior. Limestone slab (L 1.67m; Wth 0.45m; T 0.18m), cracked in two pieces. Narrow stemmed cross (L 1.45m; Wth 0.39m) with round terminals, incised on upper surface. Sides of upper surface of slab have been chamfered, very rough in parts. The above description has been derived from D. Lavelle (compiler), An Archaeological Survey of Ballinrobe and District including Lough Mask and Lough Carra. Lough Mask and Lough Carra Tourist Development Association (1994), No. 632. Date of upload: 14 November 2013

Probably dates to the early medieval period, likely 9th to 11th century, given its association with the abbey and the form of the cross. It may have served as a Christian memorial or waymarker, reflecting the spread of Christianity in the area.

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.