What is recorded here

Dublinse, the unknown dead, lies buried beneath a small cross-slab at Clonmacnoise. The name is carved on both sides of the upper arm, as if the maker wanted to be certain it would not be forgotten. The cross has looped ends and hollow angles, simple enough to belong anywhere, yet the name ties it to a distance and a person no longer living.

Clonmacnoise grave-slab inventory (1992) number: CLN00188 Dimensions: H 0.73, W 0.50, T 0.042 A plain outline ring cross with hollow angles. The arms terminate in loops. Inscription: There is an inscription running either side of the upper arm of the cross 'DUBINSE'. Evidence of discovery: Petrie 1872. Condition: Complete but worn. National Monuments Service, Photo number: 81-34, 35, 257, 272 Stokes, M. (1878) Christian Inscriptions in the Irish language, Vol 1, p XIV, no. 36 Lionard, Early Irish Grave-slabs, PRIA 60(1959-60), p 120, Fig 15, no. 3. The Clonmacnoise inventory was compiled by the Office of Public Works. A copy of the record for this slab is available for inspection in the relevant Archaeological Survey of Ireland (SMR) file. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien. Date of upload: 23 May 2011

Dated to the early medieval period, likely 8th to 10th century AD, the cross-slab reflects Christian symbolism associated with monastic sites like Clonmacnoise. Such slabs were often used as grave markers or commemorative monuments, indicating a connection to early Irish Christianity.

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