What is recorded here

Mortals must assemble behind the thorn, not before it. The refusal of entry is the first lesson, and the hawthorn is still standing beside the church ruins in County Laois.

Marked as 'thorn' on the 1838 ed OS 6-inch map. A hawthorn bush visible in this area associated with site of church (LA017-004001-) and ecclesiastical enclosure (LA017-004002-). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 17 December 2007

The hawthorn bush is traditionally associated with local Christian heritage, possibly linked to early monastic activity in the area. Hawthorns were often revered in Irish tradition for their protective and sacred qualities, and such sites were sometimes connected to saintly figures or healing rituals.

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