Graveslab in Templemoyle (graigabbey Ed)

In 1978 a limestone graveslab, bearing the inscription 'OROIT AR MAELPOIL' ('a prayer for the devotee of Paul'), and a large bronze-coated iron hand-bell of 7th-9th century date were discovered at the site of a burial ground (GA071-082----), indicating that the burial ground was probably associated with the adjoining churches of 'Templemoyle Church' (GA084-127002-) and 'Templebally' (GA071-082003-) (pers. comm. Prof. Rynne). Higgins (1987, ii, 272, no. 4) described the graveslab (L 0.85m; Wth 0.65m; T 0.25m) as being an unusually crude and massive block with little evidence of having being worked before being deposited. No attempt had been made to level its surface. The inscription was positioned three quarters way down the slab and a small one-line Latin cross followed it. Unlike the lettering which was pocked, the cross was inscribed on the slab. Higgins (ibid.) noted that its positioning was unusual as such crosses are more usually placed before an inscription. The present location of the graveslab is unknown. Updated by: Olive Alcock Date of revised upload: 25 May 2018

Early medieval Christian burial; 7th–9th century. The graveslab and bell indicate a Christian burial associated with a devotee of Saint Paul, reflecting early monastic or ecclesiastical activity in the region.