What is recorded here
Cross-slab in Gallen lies on a slight rise beside a river in County Offaly, marking an old church, graveyard and possible abbey. Excavation in 1934-5 brought up early Christian cross-slabs now kept in the National Museum of Ireland. The place still suggests worship, burial and remembrance, with stone carrying what life once repeated there.
Situated on a slight rise with river to the E. The ecclesiastical remains consist of an excavated medieval church (OF014-029008-), possible abbey church (OF014-029001-), graveyard (OF014-029002-) early Christian cross-slabs (OF014-029003-) and a bullaun stone (OF014-029005-). Cross-slabs were discovered during an excavation carried out in 1934-5 in the area around a medieval church (OF014-029008-) and now housed in the National Museum of Ireland (Reg. No. Nonumber 6; Habitat Q22:6; Q23:6; Q25:6). One of three cross-slabs (OF014-029013/015). (JRSAI 69, 1939 1-20; PRIA 46 1940-1)
Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien.
Date of upload: 23 May 2011
Probably dates to the early Christian period (5th–9th centuries) and may have functioned as a memorial or liturgical marker. Such cross-slabs often carried religious or symbolic carvings, reflecting Christian influence and local devotional practices.
The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.
- What survives
- Recorded monument
Places near here
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Lug Holy WellSpring · 3.7 mi
European ashEuropean ash · 3.9 mi