St. Dabnets Chapel (Site of)

Only the foundations of the church survive, aligned N-S (int. dims. 13.2m N-S; 7.4m E-W). Within it is a low irregular-shaped cairn of large and small stones which is said to represent the 'Saint's Grave' (local information) and according to Davies (1948, 111-2) was formerly enclosed by upright slabs, only two of which were still in situ at that time. He also noted an altar in the S corner which appeared to him to be of recent construction, and some small slabs set on edge and buried in turf outside the N wall of the church. A total of nine architectural fragments, including two stone heads, originally from the church, have been erected in its vicinity and serve as stations. A holy well (CV026-022003-) is situated in the bed of the river immediately below the church. Davies (1948, 111-2) commented that the church is 'apparently pre-Reformation; but it is not shown on any early map, nor did the townland belong to the church, so it may have been a private oratory'. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cavan' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1995). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 22 December 2008