Cross-slab in Killeen (muskerry West By., Ballvourney Par.)

This record is for the original location of 'St Gobnet's stone' which is c. 60m WSW of the present location (CO058-013002-). According to Kelly (1897, 104), Windele noted on its removal 'many bones' under the mound where it stood. Now set in concrete and protected by circular stone wall. Thin slab (H 1.04m; 0.36m x 0.08m) with both N and S faces are decorated with a Greek cross of arcs, enclosed by two incised concentric rings. Treble cross, decorating top arm of cross on S face is thought by Henry (1952, 41) to be 'a fairly recent addition'. Above circle on N face walks an incised figure in side profile. Figure is simply depicted, with facial features, wearing a bell-shaped garment and carrying a crozier. Henry (ibid.) dates stone to second half of 7th century. Hurley and O'Flaherty (1981, 57-8) noted similarities between St Gobnait's Stone and stone from Bawnatemple (CO071-108005-) c. 19km to E. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 3: Mid Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of revision: 14 December 2009 This monument is subject to a preservation order made under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 (PO no. 29/1976). Image curated by Amanda Clarke 2016 https://holywellscorkandkerry.com/