Cross-slab in Lackan

Situated on rising ground with commanding views to the W, N and E. Ruins of medieval nave and chancel church (WM006-037----) stands in N quadrant of rectangular-shaped graveyard (WM006-037001-). Medieval church built on site of Early Christian monastery of Lecan-Midhe mentioned in 750 when the Annals of Ulster recorded the death of ‘Fursu, abbot of Lecan Midhe’ (AU, 215). According to O’Donovan the monastery was founded by St. Cruimín whose feastday was celebrated here on June 28th (AFM, 349). According to the Martyrology of Tallaght a second feastday to St. Cruimín (Croimín) fell on the 29th of December (Ó Riain 2011, 237). Early Christian sandstone cross-slab (L 1.15m; Wth 0.45m; T 0.1m) reused as lintel over doorway in S wall of church (WM006-037----) (Swan 1988, 9). Sandstone slab containing an incised double-lined cross with circular centre and semi-circular or D-shaped terminals contained within an incised double-lined rectangular-shaped frame. The edge of the cross-slab has been broken off and part of the arm of the cross along with the incised frame is now missing. See attached drawing of cross-slab by Kevin O'Brien, OPW taken from SMR File. Compiled and revised by: Caimin O’Brien Date of revised upload: 5 August 2015

Cross-slab in Lackan likely dates to the early Christian period, associated with the nearby medieval church and graveyard. It may have served as a high cross or memorial marker, reflecting Christian symbolism and local religious practice.