Shrine in Caherlehillan

In the NE quadrant of the ecclesiastical enclosure (KE070-043----). Excavation of this early medieval corner-post shrine took place during the undergraduate training programme of the Department of Archaeology, UCC (Sheehan 2000a, 89; 2004, 211; 2006, 214). The shrine (1.9m x 1.9m; H c. 0.8m), whose sides are formed of large, thin sandstone slabs, has a taller upright pillar at each corner. Three of the original corner-posts survive, one of which features a linear cross with a bifid terminal at the top of the shaft. The shrine appears to have been deliberately positioned over a primary grave, of 'lintel-grave' type, within which lay a small stone cross. Two cross-slabs (KE070-043002-, KE070-043004-) stand on the W side of the shrine. (O'Sullivan and Sheehan 1996, 263-5, no. 934) See attached photographs courtesy of Amanda Clarke Compiled by: Elizabeth Byrne, Ursula Egan and Sheila Ronan, Archaeological Survey Unit, University College, Cork. Date of upload: 30 May 2011

A small early medieval stone shrine, likely built in the 9th to 11th century, associated with an ecclesiastical site; its style reflects Insular Christian traditions and suggests a devotional or monastic function.