Head Stone

Not marked on 1842 and 1904 OS 6-inch maps. In field beside farmhouse and to SE of possible early ecclesiastical enclosure (CO060-075001-). Thin slab (H c. 1m; 0.35m x0.15m) with simple Greek cross enclosed by two circles (diam. 0.19m) incised on SW face. Arms are formed of triple incised lines, centre lines of which terminate at circumference of outer enclosing circle, whilst other lines terminate at inner circle. Part of slab has flaked away above the circle. Bullaun stone (CO060-075006-) at base of slab. Locally believed to mark grave of priest killed in Penal times (Hartnett 1939, 44). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 3: Mid Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

Probably dates to the early Christian period, given its proximity to an early ecclesiastical enclosure and the presence of a cross. The Greek cross within circles may indicate a Christian memorial or ritual marker, possibly associated with a local saint or significant figure.