High stone Crosses of Ireland: The Drumcliffe Cross
Written by Jane Chadwick on May 22, 2023 | 0 Comments
In the shadow of Benbulben mountain, within sight of St. Columba’s Church, the final resting place of William Butler Yeats, the spectacular 10th Century, Drumcliffe Cross is well worth a visit.
Photo Credit: David Stanley (CC BY 2.0)
Located just 10 mins drive from Sligo town, in the ruins of a monastery founded by Saint Colmcille in 574 or 575 CE, this sandstone cross stands an imposing 12 ½ or 3.83 m tall.
Photo Credit: Kenneth Allen (CC BY-SA 2.0)
An unusual Cross
The cross is decorated with Intricate carvings on every surface. Featuring unusual elements like a lion and camel, there are also scenes from the bible and what is thought to be the only representation of the Virgin Mary and Child on an Irish High Cross.
Photo Credit: Becky McReynolds (CC BY-SA 4.0)
From Sandstone to Silver
Our talented silversmiths have taken inspiration from this impressive sandstone carving in our own recreated Drumcliff cross. Measuring over 1.5 inches high including a polished bale, the intricate illustrations of the original carving have been recreated with minute detail on front and back, all expertly finished. The skill and workmanship are extraordinary.
A double sided, solid, and weighty cross will last a lifetime and can be passed on as a family heirloom. Hallmarked in the assay office at Dublin castle, you can rest assured of the fine quality of the sterling silver. Like the original stone cross it is inspired by, this cross has been built to last and is ideal for fans of Irish culture and history, those with strong faith, or connection to Ireland.
Over 300 High Stone Crosses
Over 300 high stone crosses that date from around 800 CE to 1200 CE still stand tall in Ireland today. If you enjoyed reading about the Muiredach cross, find out more about the history and symbolism of Celtic crosses or check out the stories behind our other high stone crosses.
High Crosses of Ireland
Keep a piece of Ireland close with one of our recreations in solid sterling silver or gold. Like the original stone crosses they are inspired by, these heirlooms have been built to last.
Ardboe High Cross
AU$320.00
Gold Duleek Celtic Cross
AU$2455.00
Heirloom Muiredach Celtic Cross
AU$260.00
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Jane Chadwick
My Irish Jeweler
Born in Dublin but reared in Canada, as a child I had an interest in Ireland that will be familiar to many young emigrants. I was completely fascinated, wanting to know all about the land of my parents and grandparents. Rare month-long family trips back "Home" cemented my love for Ireland. And I wore my Irish heritage with pride, sporting my tiny silver Claddagh gifted to me by my Irish grandparents until my finger grew too large for it!
As a young adult I moved back to Dublin, studying Geology and Mineralogy in university at historic Trinity College Dublin. After living in Denmark and the Netherlands working as a scientist and university mineralogy lecturer, I finally settled back home in Dublin. I joined the growing family at My Irish Jeweler in 2016, bringing my useful knowledge of metals and minerals as well as my perspective as an Irish emigrant with a love for HOME.
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