Cross-slab in Knockbarron

Early Christian foundation founded by St. Barrind in the sixth century (Purser 1918, 74-7). Located on low-lying land with river to the S, esker ridge to the N and E with motte (OF036-028004-) to the NW. Long rectangular church (OF036-028001-) built of roughly coursed sandstone blocks with base batter evident at W end of N wall only. There is an upright Early Christian cross-slab (OF036-028005-) located to the SE of the church with incised double lined cross with bifurcating terminals. 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. Date of upload: 23 May 2011

Probably dating to the Early Christian period (6th–9th centuries), the cross-slab in Knockbarron may have been associated with the foundation of St. Barrind and used for religious or commemorative purposes. Its location near a motte and esker ridge suggests it was part of a broader landscape of settlement and spiritual significance.