What is recorded here

Monument stands in County Galway as a limestone cenotaph erected around 1925 for Father Michael Griffin, a priest who would not break the seal of confession. Its tapered blocks, inscribed plaques and religious symbols turn a roadside memorial into a sharp reminder of local resistance and personal danger. The chamber of confession became a trap for Griffin, yet the monument still treats that refusal as honour rather than victimhood.

The following description is from the National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (see www.buildingsofireland.ie/buildings-search/building/30409301/father-griffin-monument-cloghscoltia-galway last accessed 4 August 2021): Rectangular-plan tapered monument, erected c.1925, renovated 1992. Limestone block construction comprising central block with plaques having inscriptions and religious iconography, set on plinth having coping above and having flanking U-plan walling having inscribed plaques. Chamfered coping and tapered stops to front of flanking wall. Set on concrete platform with steps and cast-iron turnstile and railing. This religious and republican monument was erected to commemorate Fr Michael Griffin, a local priest who 'would not break the seal of confession'. The simple yet functional form of the monument is enlivened by the large amount of text on the central and flanking plaques. Also, the detailed religious iconography increases the artistic appeal of the structure. This monument is of social and historical significance, its roadside location providing a feature of interest and a poignant reminder of Ireland's troubled past. Its style and design is similar to other nationalist monuments dispersed throughout the Irish countryside. Compiled by: Olive Alcock Date of upload: 4 August 2021

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.