Irish High Crosses
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Kilree Kilree High Cross is believed to be of the 9th century. A badly weathered sandstone cross standing at 2.75 metres high, most of which is covered with bosses and geometrical motifs. The east face pictured right, bears a hunting scene on the arms. The ends of the south arm also features some figure sculpture but these are difficult to interpret. On the west face is probably an Adoration of the Magi and maybe Daniel in the lions den. There is a tenon joint still visible on the top of the head, so more than likely the cross was fitted with a capstone. The most dominant feature of this site is the round tower. This old monastic site is situated in the middle of farmland. Please be careful if you do visit as sometimes there is a bull present in the field. The weather was not very kind to me on the day I took these pictures so I hope to visit again soon. |
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In early Irish Christianity, Christ is represented by the sun. On the right arm the autumn sun is represented by a boss with the fading suns rays. At the south of the head is a single boss representing the dying or winter sun. On the left the suns rays appear again around a single boss repesenting spring. Finally at the top of the head is a radiant sun and above it you can see the sun rising up into the sky, showing the summer sun in all it's glory. |
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Situated: From Kilkenny take the N10 south to Stoneyford, here take right turn for Kells, at Kells keep left, after two kilometres you should see the round tower in a field to your right, the cross stands 100 metres beyond the tower. Discovery OS. Map: 67 S 4968 4123. Longitude: 7° 16' 5" W Latitude: 52° 31' 13" N Last Visit: March 2011. |
Nearest High Crosses featured on this website Killamery: 13 Kilometres WSW. Ahenny: 15 Kilometres SW. Kilkieran: 16 Kilometres SSW. Graiguenamanagh: 22 Kilometres E. Ullard: 24 Kilometres ENE. |
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