Graveslab in Lackan

Situated on rising ground with commanding views to the W, N and E. Ruins of Lackan medieval nave and chancel church (WM006-037----) in N quadrant of rectangular-shaped graveyard (WM006-037003-). Medieval church built on site of Early Christian monastery of Lecan-Midhe mentioned in 750 when the Annals of Ulster recorded the death of ‘Fursu, abbot of Lecan Midhe’ (AU, 215). During the reign of Edward I. (1272-1307) Adam de Ledwyche [Ledwith] granted the Abbey of Tristernagh (WM) ‘the church of Lekkyn [Lackan]’ (Cogan 1870, 605). Recumbent intact coffin-shaped slab (L 1.83m; top Wth 0.6m; base Wth 0.4m) with chamfered edge located 2.8m S of S wall of church (WM003-067----). The slab is located immediately S of the Delamere family burial plot and immediately E of the Celtic Cross marking the grave of Patrick Wallace. A tall yew tree stands over the graveslab. The slab contains a Latin cross carved in false relief creating 4 panels. The two small square shaped panels located between the arms of cross are decorated with interlace patterns. An incised Latin inscription which possibly reads ‘hic jacet Hugo O Ranůn’ / ‘here lies Hugh O'Ranun' or a variation of this surname carved into the panel on the right side of the cross shaft. The panel on the left side of the shaft is blank. See attached drawing of graveslab by Kevin O'Brien, OPW taken from SMR File. Compiled and revised by: Caimin O’Brien Date of revised upload: 17 August 2015

Graveslab in Lackan is a medieval Christian burial monument, likely 12th to 16th century in date. Its location within a former churchyard indicates its significance as part of a religious and communal burial site associated with the medieval church ruins.