High stone Crosses of Ireland: The Durrow Cross
Written by Jane Chadwick on May 22, 2023 | 0 Comments
The cross of Durrow can be found at Durrow Abbey, in Co. Offaly, at a site established in the 6th century by St. Colmcille , also known as Columba. Standing more than 12 ft or 3.6 m tall, this elaborately carved sandstone cross is a treasure of ancient Ireland.
Photo Credit: Karen123 (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Like the 7th century book that bears the same name on exhibit in Trinity’s Long Room alongside the Book of Kells, the Durrow cross is elaborately decorative. Intricate interlace connects illustrations depicting Christ as well as scenes and individuals from the bible, including King David and St. Peter.
Photo Credit: Dalenevada (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Pattern Festival
Held on the 9th of June each year, the local community of Durrow gathers for a Pattern festival, to commemorate the death of St. Colmcille. This festival has been held every year going back centuries and involves masses, a procession to the holy well, singing, games and dancing. This tradition is one of the last of it's kind in Ireland, and has been kept through the commitment of the community, outlined in a video by Offaly History below.
From Sandstone to Silver
Captuirng the spirit of community and faith embodied by the stone cross, our double sided replica measures over 1 and a half inches high including the bale. The intricate carvings of the original have been faithfully reproduced in minute detail on front and back, all expertly finished. The skill and workmanship are extraordinary.
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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