Cross-slab in Clonenagh

In an elevated area. In 1988 ten early Christian cross-slabs, rectangular in shape were uncovered during the digging of a pathway through the graveyard (LA017-003007-) at Clonenagh. Three are in false relief, the remainder are simple incised crosses. These cross-slabs have been attached to the inner E face of the graveyard wall in the W quadrant of the graveyard. The slabs have been numbered one to thirteen by Manning in his article entitled 'Cross-Slabs from Clonenagh, Co. Laois' (1998, 185-192). The slabs are upright just inside the gateway to the graveyard. This area has been used as a dumping place for cut grass and other debris that has resulted in the base of the slabs being covered in soil and vegetation. Slab 4 consists of a 'small complete slab (H 0.45m, Wth 0.4m, T 0.05m) with an outline Latin cross incised on it. The upright portion of the cross forms a complete long rectangle with the arms, consistsing of two small rectangles, attached' (Manning 1998, 187). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 17 December 2007

Dated to the early Christian period (7th–9th century AD), the cross-slab in Clonenagh likely served a funerary or commemorative function, reflecting the spread of Christianity in the region. The carved crosses may symbolize Christian faith and are associated with early monastic or ecclesiastical sites in the area.