Penitential station in Ballyshanny

On a low knoll in pasture, within a large multiperiod field system (CL009-059001-). This subcircular penitential station (6.5m N-S; 5m E-W; H 0.9m) is composed of a loose tumble of large unworked stones and smaller blocks with small moss-covered stones at the centre. No kerbing or revetting stones are evident. It is possible that it is the ‘heap of stones’ noted by Kaftannikov (1953-1957, 30), which surrounded the well-cut socket stone of a cross (CL009-092----). Alternatively, a very small circular area (diam. 2.7m) at the highest point of the knoll, 7.5m to the NE, may be it. The latter is defined by large unworked grass-covered blocks (av. L 0.5m; Wth 0.2m; H 0.4m) set on edge as a kerb/retaining wall and the interior is filled with loose stones. This may have been a wall/plinth/socket for the cross. Compiled by: Olive Alcock and Conn Herriott Date of upload: 31 May 2022

A penitential station associated with early Christian pilgrimage practices, likely linked to local saints or monastic traditions; such sites were used by penitents undertaking religious journeys, often involving acts of penance and prayer.