Architectural fragment in Rathmelton

Outside the door of the Church of Ireland parish church in Ramelton are two medieval carved blocks. Both bear relief carving of 15th/16th century character and their upper sections are bevelled and dressed. Though believed to have been removed from Tullyaughnish Old Church (DG046-005002-) their original provenance and function are unknown. One bears the representation of a lion passant reguardant biting a stylised vine-leaf; another vine-leaf projects from its bifurcated tail. Two opposing beasts sejant with conjoined cat-like head guardant are carved on the other block; both tails terminate in a stylised vineleaf. There is a parallel carving from Magherabeg Friary at St. Ernans House (DG019-002 and DG036-033). The above description was derived from the 'Archaeological Survey of County Donegal. A description of the field antiquities of the County from the Mesolithic Period to the 17th century.' Compiled by: Brian Lacey with Eamon Cody, Claire Cotter, Judy Cuppage, Noel Dunne, Vincent Hurley, Celie O'Rahilly, Paul Walsh and Seán Ó Nualláin (Lifford: Donegal County Council, 1983). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated. Date of upload: 22 September 2008