St Abbans Grave

In Shanacloon Wood, on level patch of ground. Cairn of loosely-packed stones (H 0.9m; 3.8m N-S; 3.4m E-W), on top of which rests bullaun stone (9239). Traditionally known as "St Abbán's grave". Three ogham stones (CO058-039001-, CO058-039005-, CO058-039006-) flank the cairn; according to tradition there were once four ogham stones here (O Ceallaigh 1986, 12). Some quartzite stones have been deposited on NW side of cairn. Still in holy use; decorated with modern cross and recent devotionalia. St Abbán is credited with founding the nunnery at Ballyvourney (CO058-034001-) for St Gobnait (Harbison 1991, 136). Second bullaun stone c. 16m to NE. 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 upload/revision: 14 January 2009

St Abbán, a 6th-century Irish saint, is traditionally associated with this site, believed to be his burial place; the bullaun stone may have been used for ritual purposes or the preparation of holy water. The presence of ogham stones suggests early Christian or prehistoric significance, linking the site to both pagan and monastic traditions.