Graveslab in Lynally Glebe

Monastery founded here in the 6th century by Colmán Eala who died in 611 (Ó Riain 2011, 203; Gwynn and Hadcock 1988, 41). Late medieval graveslab with floriated papal-cross with switch-line traceried head carved in relief with the letters E K incised either side of the shaft of the cross. Located SW of Lynally church (OF016-031001-) in W sector of graveyard (OF016-031002-). According to local tradition this graveslab marks the grave of St Colman and is known as St. Colmans Cross (Fitzpatrick and O'Brien 1988, 144; ITA Survey 1942). Graveslab described in 1942 as following: In graveyard [OF016-031002-] traditional grave of St. Colman, covered by a long flat slab 1’11” [0.58m] x 5’6” [1.67m], carved in low relief with a four armed cross with interlaced bands in the angles, 3 cross-bars cutting the shaft, which rises from a pointed arcade containing 4 bars of intersecting tracery of type shaft. The raised bands of the carving are very wide and flat, so the carving is entirely in two planes’ (ITA Survey SMR File). To see a 3D model of this graveslab, visit https://skfb.ly/owEYp 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. Compiled and revised by: Caimin O'Brien Date of revised upload: 8 June 2015

Late medieval Christian graveslab, 14th–15th century, associated with an early monastic site; significant for its carved floriated papal cross and switch-line traceried head, reflecting ecclesiastical art and continuity of sacred use at the site.