Castlekeeran
Ogham Stone
Situated on farmland in County Meath, the site of the monastery at Castlekeeran is some what neglected. The monastery was founded here by Saint Ciaran, who died around 770 AD. The monastery was raided by the Vikings in 949 and later burned by Dermot Macmurrough.The Ogham Stone is situated in Keim Churchyard. The stone was found by someone digging a grave in the cemetery, it has been placed on a ledge, against the wall of the old church in what is an inverted position.The inscription reads 'COVAGNI MAQI MUCOI LUGUNI'. A more recent interpretation (Heery and Newman Maguire 2012) has identified further letters and provides the reading: T_COVAGNI MAQI MUCOI LUGUNI ITI, and they suggest that the person commemorated is Segéne of Clara whose death is recorded in the Annals of Tigernach in 784, from National Monuments Service.
Situated: At Carnaross head for Crossakeel, at the next crossroads turn left, then take a right turn for Crossakeel, immediately take a left turn, signposted Castlekeeran crosses. At a farm house, there is a gate with a sign marked high crosses.
Discovery Map 42: N690 772. Last visit Sept 2022.
Longitude: 7° 31' 10" W
Latitude: 53° 19' 33" N
Photos: Jim Dempsey and José Gutierrez.
