What is recorded here

Cloch na Peacaib lies prostrate in a Cork pasture, its small drilled hole facing the ruined Kilquane church across a road that did not exist when Windele recorded the birth ritual in 1848. Women nearing confinement drew clothes through that narrow ring, trusting stone and distance to ease what flesh alone must carry. The road later cut the line between chamber and church, yet the stone remains where the ascent began, still holding the shape of a prayer made visible.

In pasture, at base of S-facing slope, on N side of road, directly opposite ruin of Kilquane church (CO042-068004-); prostrate slab (L 1.9m; 0.7m x 0.3m) with smooth hole (diam. 0.1m) drilled through it. Known locally as "Cloch na Peacaib" (the sinner's stone); according to Windele, writing in1848, 'women, nearing their confinement, used to draw clothes through the hole in order to ensure a favourable delivery' (Logan 1980, 106). According to Grove-White (1905-25, vol. 3, 323), the stone 'formerly stood a little higher up the ascent'. The road, which now separates the stone from the ruined church, was not constructed until the mid-19th century. Original location record CO042-113----. 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 revision: 17 December 2009 Revised by: Mary Tunney This monument is subject to a preservation order made under the National Monuments Acts 1930 to 2014 (PO no. 1/1993).

Probably dating to the early Christian or medieval period, the Sinners Stone may have been used for ritual purposes or as a symbol of penance. Local tradition might associate the hole with acts of contrition or as a conduit for spiritual cleansing.

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