What is recorded here

Ardcath, County Meath, Ireland, holds a concealed Sheela-na-gig in a farm wall, pulled from a gate pier in 1978. She faces outward with broad eyes and hands on her thighs, guarding the entrance where she was hidden.

Sheela-na-gig discovered in 1978 during removal of a masonry gate pier at entrance to farm where it had been intentionally concealed from view (McMahon and Roberts 2001, 112). Now in private possession and built into wall of farm. Original location of sheela-na-gig is unknown. Described by Freitag as a figure, ‘carved in false relief on limestone block, the figure fills frame formed by cut edge of stone. Big head with prominent round eyes, no neck, arms akimbo with both hands on thighs close to pudenda which is indicated as a roundish indentation. Legs slightly bent and both feet face in same direction’ (Freitag 2004, 122). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 06 June 2012

Dateable to the medieval period, the Sheela-na-gig is likely associated with fertility symbolism or ritual practice. Such figures appear across Ireland and Britain, often linked to themes of childbirth, protection, or threshold magic.

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