Cross-slab in Kilrean Upper

To the S of the SW corner of the church (DG074-009001-) in Kilrean graveyard (DG074-009007-) is a cross-slab with embryonic cross arms. The slab is 1.57m in height, 0.55m wide and 0.1m thick. On the W face is an elaborate ringed Latin cross covering most of the surface of the slab. At the centre of the cross are two concentric circles. At the top and base of the cross are two square-shaped designs consisting of interlocking triangles. In each of these is a smaller triangle all linked together by lines in a swastika fashion. On the E face is a cross formed of four pointed ovals in which are nested two similar shapes following the outlines of the pointed forms. In a field SW of the graveyard is a grassed-over V-shaped stone-walled structure (DG074-009005-), 8.5m x 6.5m with an open end to the N. The wall is .5m wide. SE of the graveyard is a holy well (DG074-009003-) and to the E of the enclosure is an erratic boulder or piece of rock outcrop 1.65m x .85m with a carved rock-basin (DG074-009002-) .36m in diameter and 0.14m in depth. The site is located on generally rocky marshy land. The above description is based on that published in the 'Archaeological Survey of County Donegal. A description of the field antiquities of the County from the Mesolithic Period to the 17th century.' Compiled by: Brian Lacey with Eamon Cody, Claire Cotter, Judy Cuppage, Noel Dunne, Vincent Hurley, Celie O'Rahilly, Paul Walsh and Seán Ó Nualláin (Lifford: Donegal County Council, 1983). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated. Revised by: Paul Walsh Date of revision/upload: 21 May 2009

This cross-slab likely dates to the early medieval period, possibly 7th to 10th century AD, and may have functioned as a Christian memorial or waymarker. Its stylized cross suggests a connection to early Irish monastic tradition, though specific folklore or dedications are not recorded.