{"id":5626,"date":"2022-04-17T21:21:44","date_gmt":"2022-04-17T19:21:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/?p=5626"},"modified":"2023-02-23T10:10:13","modified_gmt":"2023-02-23T09:10:13","slug":"irish-crosses-and-high-crosses","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/irish-crosses-and-high-crosses\/","title":{"rendered":"High Crosses: The Complete Guide to Irish Crosses"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:50%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-10::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-10{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-11::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-11{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-12::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-12{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-13::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-13{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-14::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-14{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-15::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-15{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-16::before{padding-top:62.5%; }img#mv-trellis-img-16{display:block;}<\/style>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice.jpg\" alt=\"Close up of the face of Muiredach's Cross in Monasterboice.\" class=\"wp-image-13549\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice.jpg 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice-300x188.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice-768x480.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice-400x250.jpg 400w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice-480x300.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20800%20500'%3E%3Crect%20width='800'%20height='500'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Close up of the face of Muiredach's Cross in Monasterboice.\" class=\"wp-image-13549 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice.jpg.webp\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice-300x188.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice-768x480.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice-400x250.jpg.webp 400w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/High-Cross-Irish-Cross-Muiredachs-Cross-Monasterboice-480x300.jpg.webp 480w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross in Monasterboice is one of the best known Irish Crosses. (Photo: Derrick P. Hudson via Shutterstock)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>High Crosses Irish Masterpieces <\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of Ireland&rsquo;s best artistic masterpieces are almost hiding in plain sight.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Their massive size and elaborate carvings of high crosses are hard to miss in the many ruined monasteries across the country.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> However, it is somewhat easy to overlook these impressive stone masterpieces that revolutionized <strong>Celtic art and Early Medieval stone carving<\/strong> in Europe.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Often it is the illuminated manuscripts, like the <strong>Book of Kells<\/strong>, that receive greater attention and appreciation in terms of Irish art from this period.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High crosses constitute a remarkable feat of engineering and demonstrate incredible skill and ingenuity when it comes to stone carving techniques. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many of which are <strong>over a thousand years old <\/strong>and still don&rsquo;t fail to impress.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To really grasp how impressive high crosses are,  we suggest you should stand next to one to truly appreciate its magnitude and presence!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more related content, please check out <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/celtic-cross\/\"><strong>Celtic Crosses<\/strong><\/a>, <\/span><b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/celtic-symbols-and-meanings\/\">Celtic Symbols<\/a>, <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/celtic-knot-meanings\/\"><strong>Celtic Knots<\/strong><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">or<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/irish-symbols\/\"><b> Irish Symbols<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>What is a High Cross?<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A high cross is a stone sculpture in the shape of a Latin cross that usually, but not always, features a ring at the intersection of the arms.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most striking characteristic of high crosses is their height. These towering monuments stand several meters tall.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example the <strong>West Cross<\/strong> (or aptly named Tall Cross) in Monasterboice, County Louth is the tallest high cross in Ireland measuring about 7 meters (22 ft).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Usually high crosses were made from granite, sandstone or limestone depending on the material available in the locality and the level of detail required for the carving. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(Harder rock types, such as granite, weather better, but are more difficult to carve.)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>High Cross Design<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5623 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/West_Face_Muiredachs_Cross_with_Diagram_Monasterboise_County_Lought_Ireland-1.jpg\" alt=\"Photo and sketch with captions describing the different sections of a High Cross.\" class=\"wp-image-5623\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/West_Face_Muiredachs_Cross_with_Diagram_Monasterboise_County_Lought_Ireland-1.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Photo and sketch with captions describing the different sections of a High Cross.\" class=\"wp-image-5623 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/West_Face_Muiredachs_Cross_with_Diagram_Monasterboise_County_Lought_Ireland-1.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross, Monasterboice with named sections. (Photo &copy; Derick Hudson, Sketch &copy;&nbsp;Vintage Illustrations both via Canva, additional text by Letsgoireland.com) <\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Although all high crosses differ slightly in their design, the main sections can be identified by four characteristic sections.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Base Stone<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A large pyramidal <\/span><b>base stone<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with a hollow was usually positioned at the foot of the cross. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This provides structural support in the form of a joint for the vertical beam of the main shaft. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In most cases, the base was embellished with Celtic decoration, or sometimes contained an inscription in the ancient language of ogham.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ring<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High crosses frequently contain a <\/span><b>ring <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(or nimbus), which circles around the four arms towards the top of the cross. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ring reinforces the arms and helps to stabilize and strengthen the structure. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is particularly true of the very large high crosses, such as <strong>Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross<\/strong> (Monasterboice, County Louth).&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Capstone<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At the top of the high cross a <\/span><b>capstone <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">is sometimes present. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Over the centuries many of these have been damaged or disappeared completely only showing the joint where one was once fixed in place.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the capstones were shaped like <strong>small houses or huts <\/strong>with slanted roofs. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The reason for this is unknown and the high cross house capstone has puzzled many scholars.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One suggestion is that these building-shaped capstones were a leftover design from smaller crosses made of timber or metal in which relics of a saint could be stored in a (possibly detachable) house-shaped reliquary. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, we may never know the exact reason for sure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Panels of Carved Celtic Art&nbsp;<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most identifiable features of high crosses is the extensive use of carved panels depicting the scriptures using <\/span><b>Celtic art <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">imagery and patterns to decorate the entire surface of the cross.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This particular style of art, which included <strong>human<\/strong> and <strong>animal imagery<\/strong>, as well as <strong>geometric patterns<\/strong> and<strong> interlace knotwork<\/strong> designs is typical of the Insular art (or Hiberno-Saxon art) of Ireland and Britain from this period.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n                <div class=\"ml-form-embed\" data-account=\"1451834:z8v5q8j9c3\" data-form=\"1342994:q3e2p6\">\n                <\/div>\n            \n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>History of High Crosses<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High cross development expanded upon the knowledge and skills previously acquired during the creation of the early <\/span><b>Celtic crosses<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(For more in-depth information about <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/celtic-cross\/\">Celtic crosses<\/a><\/strong> and some Celtic high crosses, you can read our post here.)<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>Early Irish Celtic&nbsp;Crosses and High Crosses<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5633 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Early_Celtic_Cross_Valentia_Island_Kerry_Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"Early Cross on Valentia Island, County Kerry\" class=\"wp-image-5633\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Early_Celtic_Cross_Valentia_Island_Kerry_Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Early Cross on Valentia Island, County Kerry\" class=\"wp-image-5633 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Early_Celtic_Cross_Valentia_Island_Kerry_Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>One of the three early crosses (from the 7th or 8th century) on Valentia Island, County Kerry. (Photo &copy;&nbsp;Dr. J&uuml;rgen Tenckhoff via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The exact origin of the high cross is hard to pinpoint. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One possibility is that high cross designs originated in Britain, maybe Scotland and that traveling missionaries brought the design idea to Ireland.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is thought that the oldest high cross in Ireland is located in <strong>Carndonagh, County Donegal<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This cross dates back to probably around the 7th century and has a rough cruciform shape. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It differs from the earlier cross slabs, such as <\/span><b>Kilvickadownig Cross Slab<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, which had a cross inscribed upon it.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Both figures and Celtic braiding patterns are found on the <\/span><b>Carndonagh Cross<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but what is noticeably absent is the shape of the ring.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The ring shape is likely to have been introduced at a later point in during the late 8th or early 9th century.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Ahenny High Crosses<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in County Tipperary are a good example of Irish high crosses with rings from the 8th century.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Another exceptionally fine example of a high cross from the late 8th century is <\/span><b>Kildalton Cross<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> located on the Scottish Isle of Islay.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>Golden Age of High Crosses&nbsp;<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5666 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th-12th_century.jpg\" alt=\"Irish high crosses\" class=\"wp-image-5666\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th-12th_century.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Irish high crosses\" class=\"wp-image-5666 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"400\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th-12th_century.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The development of high crosses in Ireland. Left: West Cross, Monasterboice, County Louth, ca. 9th\/10th century; Center: St. Boden&rsquo;s High Cross, Clonca, County Donegal ca.10th\/11th century, Right: The High Cross, Kilfenora, County Clare 12th century. (Photos &copy;&nbsp;bibi57 (l), Shawn Williams (c) and JByard (r) via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The golden age of high crosses existed from around <strong>800-1150 C.E.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This coincided with the expansion of monastic sites and their respective lay community settlements around the country.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As the monasteries grew in size, importance and power, their political status also increased.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Given the size and scale of these high cross engineering projects, substantial amounts of resources must have been required to bring a project to completion.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is likely to have led to <strong>patronages from wealthy individuals<\/strong>, who in some cases were responsible for commissioning several high crosses.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, the <\/span><b>Cross of the Scriptures<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (located in the Clonmacnoise Interpretive Centre, County Offaly) was under the patronage of the High King, Flann Sinna.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During probably the late ninth century, high cross designs started to become <strong>bigger<\/strong> and more <strong>blocky<\/strong> <strong>in their style<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Around this time, the high relief carving of the scripture narratives also became more detailed and greater emphasis was placed on the <strong>storytelling <\/strong>aspect and order of the biblical scenes.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5635 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century.jpg\" alt=\"Irish high crosses ca. 10th century\" class=\"wp-image-5635\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century.jpg 1080w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-980x552.jpg 980w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-480x270.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Irish high crosses ca. 10th century\" class=\"wp-image-5635 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"450\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century.jpg.webp 1080w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-300x169.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-1024x576.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-768x432.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-980x552.jpg.webp 980w, https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century-480x270.jpg.webp 480w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 96px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Irish_High_Crosses_9th_10th_century.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Irish high crosses from the 10th century: The Cross of the Scriptures, Clonmacnoise, County Offaly (replica) and the Ardboe Cross, County Tyrone.&nbsp;(Photos &copy; jonathan_steven (l) and Shawn Williams (r) both via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the most impressive of all high crosses date to the late 9th or early 10th century.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is thought that several of these main high crosses, such as <\/span><b>Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the <\/span><b>Cross of the Scriptures<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and the <\/span><b>Market<\/b> <b>Cross of Kells<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can possibly be attributed to the work of one exceptionally skilled mason, who has been identified as the &ldquo;<strong>Muiredach Master<\/strong>&rdquo; by the art historian Roger Stalley.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 11th century appears to have been a relatively quiet time for high cross production, before a resurgence in high cross production in the early 12th century.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This last period of high cross development in Ireland saw a notable influx of Scandinavian influences to the design.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead of the chunky, solid designs of previous crosses, the layout of the newer crosses was not as large and as with the earliest high crosses, the ring form is once again often absent.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><b>St. Tola&rsquo;s Cross<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> at the <strong>Monastery of Dysert O&rsquo; Dea<\/strong><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in County Clare from the 12th century illustrates a completely different style of iconography to the scripture crosses.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead of many detailed scenes, the cross displays two high relief figures one on top of each other. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The upper figure showing the Crucification of Christ and the lower figure is that of a bishop, possibly St. Tola the founder of the monastery.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5659 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/West_Cross_Kilfenora_County_Clare.jpg\" alt=\"The High Cross in Kilfenora, County Clare \" class=\"wp-image-5659\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/West_Cross_Kilfenora_County_Clare.jpg.webp\" alt=\"The High Cross in Kilfenora, County Clare \" class=\"wp-image-5659 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/West_Cross_Kilfenora_County_Clare.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The High Cross in Kilfenora, County Clare is believed to have created around the same time as the nearby cathedral in the late 12th century. (Photo &copy; JByard via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The relatively simple design of the crucifixion on the <strong>West Cross in Kilfenora, County Clare<\/strong> dating from about the 12th century, is another typical example from this late high cross period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After the 12th century, the creation of new high crosses in Ireland ceased almost completely. Some of the Iona high crosses are thought to have been constructed as late as the 14th century.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the 19th century, brought about a renewed interest in Celtic crosses and in particular high crosses.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most fundamental changes is that after this period was that replica high crosses of reduced size were used as gravemarkers in the form of headstones from this point onwards. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This practice was not used when the high crosses were created.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>High Cross Construction<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5656 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/East_Cross_Kells_Ireland_Under_Construction.jpg\" alt=\"East Cross in Kells, County Meath\" class=\"wp-image-5656\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/East_Cross_Kells_Ireland_Under_Construction.jpg.webp\" alt=\"East Cross in Kells, County Meath\" class=\"wp-image-5656 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/East_Cross_Kells_Ireland_Under_Construction.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The unfinished East Cross in Kells, County Meath with the round tower of the monastery in the background. (Photo &copy; Stephan Barnes via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The staggering advancements related to high cross design that took place in a relatively short time frame of a few centuries, identifies Ireland as a major hub of activity.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is easy to forget the amount of planning and labor that must have gone into constructing such a high cross sculpture. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This was certainly not a quick endeavor and took considerable time and planning to execute.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example it was first necessary to find suitable stone in relatively close proximity to the future site of the cross.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the case of <strong>Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross<\/strong>, the stone, which likely weighed as much as 10 tonnes, came from the quarry of Carrickleck about 22 kilometers (ca. 14 miles) away.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There is still quite a bit of debate as to whether the high crosses were carved in situ or prior to their erection.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There was considerable risk to carving the piece before it was erected. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is difficult to imagine just how some of the pieces could have actually been carved by the expert stonemasons when the cross was free standing.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The<strong> East Cross in Kells, County Meath<\/strong> is an example of a half finished cross in situ. Sections of the cross appear to have been prepared for carving as shown in the image above.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Either way, it would have been necessary to use a substantial hoist system to maneuver the extremely heavy upper sections of the cross into place.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>Muiredach Master&nbsp;<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5487 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Muiredachs_Cross_monasterboise_County_Louth_Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"Muiredach's Cross in Monasterboice, County Louth\" class=\"wp-image-5487\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Muiredachs_Cross_monasterboise_County_Louth_Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Muiredach's Cross in Monasterboice, County Louth\" class=\"wp-image-5487 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Muiredachs_Cross_monasterboise_County_Louth_Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross in Monasterboice is thought to be one of the best preserved examples of early Medieval stone carving in Europe. (Photos &copy; Derick Hudson via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most intriguing parts of the history of the high cross development is the master stonemason, the so-called &ldquo;<\/span><b>Muiredach master<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&rdquo;. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This master was responsible for creating some of the most impressive pieces of Early Medieval stone carving in Europe.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As there are no written records about these high crosses, scholars are left to discover clues about the creators from the surviving artwork. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stonemasons would have a selection of tool options to create the desired effect on the stone such as axes, chisels and even drills.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The very clear distinctive style of the figures on the crosses of the <\/span><b>Market Cross of Kells<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>Cross of the Scriptures<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>Durrow High Cross<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> act like a signature for this particular mastermind stonemason (or perhaps a school of stonemasons).&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As word spread about the exquisite stonemason skills, it is likely that other wealthy and influential individuals commissioned other high crosses.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5610 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Cross_of_the_Scriptures_Original_Replica_Clonmacnoise_Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"The Cross of the Scripture\" class=\"wp-image-5610\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Cross_of_the_Scriptures_Original_Replica_Clonmacnoise_Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"The Cross of the Scripture\" class=\"wp-image-5610 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Cross_of_the_Scriptures_Original_Replica_Clonmacnoise_Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The original Cross of the Scriptures (l) is located indoors to prevent further damage. A very realistic replica of the original is on display outside in Clonmacnoise, County Offaly. (Photos &copy; Letsgoireland.com)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>What was the Purpose of High Crosses?&nbsp;<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High crosses most likely fulfilled several functions. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The detailed scripture panels functioned as an educational tool for biblical stories. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition, many high crosses also served as status symbols for prominent abbots or kings, while in other cases they acted as boundary markers (termon crosses).&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>High Crosses as an Educational Tool<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5491 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Weathered_panal_Muiredachs_Cross_Monasterboice_Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"A detailed scene from Muiredach's Cross\" class=\"wp-image-5491\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Weathered_panal_Muiredachs_Cross_Monasterboice_Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"A detailed scene from Muiredach's Cross\" class=\"wp-image-5491 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Weathered_panal_Muiredachs_Cross_Monasterboice_Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-10\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>A detailed scene from Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross, carved around the early 10th century showing signs of weathering. (Photo &copy;&nbsp;Derick Hudson via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">First impressions may lead one to think of the significance of high crosses in a mainly religious context, however the functions are likely to be more broad than this.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For example, it is unlikely that the primary function of these high crosses was to educate people through the elaborate biblical scenes.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The carefully selected scenes from the Old Testament and New Testament were most likely aimed at a knowledgeable audience. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is quite likely that the crosses were even painted to make the carvings even more vibrant. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is clear is that high crosses were definitely designed to impress.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Given that many of these high crosses are more than one thousand years old and still inspire great awe and wonder today, gives an inkling of how extraordinary they must have been to the people living when they were first constructed.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Celtic Crosses as Status Symbols<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5648 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Muiredachs_Cross-_and_Round_Tower_Monasterboice.jpg\" alt=\"Muiredach's Cross in Monasterboice monastery\" class=\"wp-image-5648\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Muiredachs_Cross-_and_Round_Tower_Monasterboice.jpg.webp\" alt=\"Muiredach's Cross in Monasterboice monastery\" class=\"wp-image-5648 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Muiredachs_Cross-_and_Round_Tower_Monasterboice.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-11\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><i>Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross was likely named in honour of a notable abbot from the Monasterboice monastery. (Photos &copy;&nbsp;mammuth via Canva)<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This supports the idea that at least some high crosses were used as a symbol of status and power and perhaps to also leave a lasting legacy.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muiredach Cross has an inscription which translates to &ldquo;a prayer for Muiredach who had this cross made&rdquo; and is thought to refer to the abbot of the monastery. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As the inscription has been written around two cat carvings, it may have been added after the cross was completed.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Celtic Crosses as Boundary Markers<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other functions of high crosses include marking boundary lines. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>Castlekeeran high crosses<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in County Meath are examples of these boundary crosses (also known as termon crosses) and are relatively planly carved.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>Famous High Crosses in Ireland<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Early Irish Celtic crosses paved the way for the more elaborate designs of the high crosses that followed. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are crosses scattered all over Ireland, so it is difficult to select just a few ones to highlight. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are a few of the most stunning examples.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>Ahenny High Crosses, County Tipperary<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5639 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/South_Cross_of_Ahenny_Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"South Cross of Ahenny, County Tipperary\" class=\"wp-image-5639\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/South_Cross_of_Ahenny_Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"South Cross of Ahenny, County Tipperary\" class=\"wp-image-5639 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/South_Cross_of_Ahenny_Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-12\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The fine detailed carving of the South Cross of Ahenny is clearly visible in this image. (Photo &copy;&nbsp;genekrebs via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the earliest stone crosses are part of the <\/span><b>Ossory group of crosses<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that were once part of the Kingdom of Ossory. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Ahenny High Crosses are two crosses from this group at the monastic site of Kilclispeen in County Tipperary. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">They are thought to have been constructed in the 8th century<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What makes these crosses unique is that they are based on the design of wooden crosses that previously existed at the site.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These wooden crosses were enclosed in metal cases featuring ornate Celtic designs of spirals and interlacing. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The original patterns of the metalwork and bosses were then replicated in the stone carving of the crosses. Only the base stones feature figure carvings.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At some point in the past, the <strong>North Cross<\/strong> (ca. 3.1 m or 10 ft) lost one of the connecting ring sections and so the ring is no longer complete. The <strong>South Cross<\/strong> is slightly larger at 3.9 meters (12.7 ft).<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Celtic knotwork patterns of the Ahenny Crosses have served as inspiration for the modern version of the Celtic cross that has been popular since the Celtic revival.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>Muirdeach&rsquo;s Cross, County Louth<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5650 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Muiredachs_Cross_Monasterboice.jpg\" alt=\"East and west face of Muiredach's Cross, Monasterboice\" class=\"wp-image-5650\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Muiredachs_Cross_Monasterboice.jpg.webp\" alt=\"East and west face of Muiredach's Cross, Monasterboice\" class=\"wp-image-5650 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Muiredachs_Cross_Monasterboice.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-13\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The west face (left and center) and the east face of Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross, Monasterboice, County Louth.<\/em> <i>(Photos &copy;&nbsp;mammoth&nbsp;(l), Manifestive_Media (c) and hbieser (r) via Canva)<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross<\/strong> is one of the most impressive of all of the Irish high crosses. Scholars believe that this sandstone cross was most likely made after 850 C.E., but probably no later than around 920 C.E.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The high relief panels which cover each side of the cross contain detailed biblical scenes.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These include Adam and Eve, the Adoration of the Magi and the Ascension. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The central section on the west face illustrates the crucifixion, while the Last Judgement is carved on the central area of the east face.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Animal imagery carvings of cats, snakes and even centaurs can also be found in the iconography.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross is the most famous Monasterboice cross, but there are two other high crosses on the site of the monastic ruins.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The other crosses are called the <\/span><b>West Cross <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and the less decorated, <\/span><b>North Cross<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In addition to the two churches on site, there is also a round tower, which was used to shelter the monks and precious artifacts from the Viking raids.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>Kells High Crosses<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5641 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HIgh_Cross_Kells_Abbey_County_Meath_Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"The East Cross of Kells, County Meath. \" class=\"wp-image-5641\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HIgh_Cross_Kells_Abbey_County_Meath_Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"The East Cross of Kells, County Meath. \" class=\"wp-image-5641 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HIgh_Cross_Kells_Abbey_County_Meath_Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-14\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The East Cross of Kells, County Meath. (Photo &copy; Stephan Barnes via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kells in County Meath is not only famed for its association with the illuminated manuscript, the Book of Kells, which is now on exhibit in Trinity College Dublin, the town is also home to a collection of five high crosses: <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Market Cross<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The West Cross<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The East Cross<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Cross of St. Patrick and St. Columba&nbsp;<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The North Cross (only the base remains)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <strong>Market Cross<\/strong>, thought to date to have been constructed around the same time as the Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross and possibly by the same stonemasons, is the most famous of these crosses.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It stood in the shop market square of Kells, until it was damaged by a school bus in 1996. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now it can be viewed under a protective shelter outside the former courthouse in the town.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some sections of this cross are badly weathered and it is missing the uppermost arm, but it is still possible to see the detailed iconography including Daniel in the Lions Den, Cain and Abel and several hunting scenes.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One section of iconography was removed during the 17th century and an inscription was added.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>High Cross of Moone<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5652 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/High_Cross_of_Moone_Kildare_Ireland.jpg\" alt=\"High Cross of Moone, County Kildare \" class=\"wp-image-5652\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/High_Cross_of_Moone_Kildare_Ireland.jpg.webp\" alt=\"High Cross of Moone, County Kildare \" class=\"wp-image-5652 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/High_Cross_of_Moone_Kildare_Ireland.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-15\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><i>The High Cross of Moone, County Kildare with a detailed base panel featuring Daniel in the pit of the lions. The cross has moved location and is protected by a roof. <\/i> <i>(Photo &copy; atlantic-kid via Canva)<\/i><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The High Cross of Moone in County Kildare, differs from the stockier design of Muiredach&rsquo;s Cross and that of the Market Cross of Kells. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Instead it is particularly lean and slender in design and is thought to be the second tallest high cross in Ireland (ca. 7 meters)<\/span>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It was constructed from granite and the cross features scripture scenes illustrating God helping people such as the miracle of the loaves and the fishes and shielding the innocents from danger.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The base and top sections of this high cross were first rediscovered in the early 19th century. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Later the main shaft was uncovered and now the complete cross has been reassembled and relatively recently restored.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><b>Irish Crosses<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-5643 size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/West_Cross_Monasterboice_County_Louth.jpg\" alt=\"West Cross, Monasterboice, County Louth\" class=\"wp-image-5643\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/West_Cross_Monasterboice_County_Louth.jpg.webp\" alt=\"West Cross, Monasterboice, County Louth\" class=\"wp-image-5643 lazyload\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/West_Cross_Monasterboice_County_Louth.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-16\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>The crucifixion scene on the West Cross, Monasterboice, County Louth. (Photo &copy; LindseyGordon via Canva)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">High crosses (and to a possibly lesser extent <\/span><b>Saint Brigid&rsquo;s Crosses<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">) have provided inspiration for many pieces of Irish jewelry and home decor.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Modern Celtic cross designs are often based on early and late period high crosses that were decorated with the Celtic knot artwork of triskeles, spirals and Trinity knot patterns.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">(For example, patterns similar to the artwork found on the Ahenny High Crosses).&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In terms of Celtic jewelry, sterling silver or gold Celtic cross pendants can be a particularly striking feature piece. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Irish Celtic cross jewelry in the form of rings and earrings are also popular choices.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more insights into Irish jewelry, take a look at our post about <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/claddagh-ring-meaning\/\"><b>Claddagh rings and their meaning<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Irish Celtic wall crosses carved from Connemara marble or timber, or created from porcelain (such as Belleek) are still found in some of the houses of mainly the older generations in Ireland.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some Irish wall crosses located near the main door contain a holy water font and would have been used as part of short prayer upon entering or leaving a house.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For more interesting articles on similar topics why not check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/celtic-cross\/\"><strong>Celtic Crosses<\/strong><\/a>, <\/span><b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/celtic-symbols-and-meanings\/\">Celtic Symbols<\/a>, <\/b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/celtic-knot-meanings\/\"><strong>Celtic Knots<\/strong><\/a> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">or<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.letsgoireland.com\/irish-symbols\/\"><b> Irish Symbols<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>This post may contain affiliate links.If you click on one of them, we might receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for your support.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>High Crosses Irish Masterpieces Some of Ireland&rsquo;s best artistic masterpieces are almost hiding in plain sight.&nbsp; Their massive size and elaborate carvings of high crosses are hard to miss in &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":13549,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false},"categories":[90],"tags":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v21.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>High Crosses: The Complete Guide to Irish Crosses<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore the history of Celtic crosses, their design and function of high crosses, complete with examples of the most famous Irish crosses.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, 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