Muiredach's High Cross 10th 9th century monastic site Monasterboice County Louth Ireland There Celtic stonework sculpture grave
Muiredach's High Cross is a high cross from the 10th or possibly 9th century, located at the ruined monastic site of Monasterboice, County Louth, Ireland. There are two other high crosses at Monasterboice; in local terms Muiredach's cross is also known as the South Cross. Muiredach's cross has been described as the most beautiful specimen of Celtic stonework now in existence; and the crosses at Monasterboice have been stated to be Ireland's greatest contribution to European sculpture. Recently concerns have been raised over the well-being of Muiredach's cross; and it has been suggested that the cross should possibly be brought indoors in order to protect it from the elements. Muiredach's High Cross is one of three surviving high crosses located at Monasterboice (Gaeilge: Mainistir Bhuithe, "Buithe's monastery"). The monastic site is said to be founded in the 6th century, by St Buithe. It is most famous for its 9th and 10th century high crosses—most notably Muiredach's High Cross. These crosses are all made of sandstone and are referred to as the North, West, and South Crosses. It is not certain whether they stand in their original locations. The South Cross is commonly known as Muiredach's cross because of an inscription on the bottom of the west-face. The inscription reads ÓR DO MUIREDACH LAS NDERNAD IN CHROS, which translates from Gaeilge as "a prayer for Muiredach who had this cross made". It is thought that this Muiredach is likely Muiredach mac Domhnall (died 923), who was one of the monastery's most celebrated abbots; he was also the abbot-elect of Armagh and also the steward of the southern Uí Néill. There is, however, another abbot named Muiredach who died in 844. Another possibility is that Muiredach may refer to Muiredach mac Cathail (died 867); a king whose territory included the site of the monastery.
Size: 1977px × 4306px
Photo credit: © SOTK2011 / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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