High stone Crosses of Ireland: The Wishing Cross of St. Kevin at Gendalough
Written by Jane Chadwick on May 22, 2023 | 0 Comments
In the tranquil lake-filled glacial valley in the Wicklow Mountains, you'll find Glendalough and the high stone cross of St. Kevin. This unusual cross stands an imposing 3.35 meters tall and is set within the ruins of a monastic site founded by St Kevin, a hermit monk, in the 6th Century.
Photo Credit: Len Williams (CC BY-SA 2.0)
An Unusual Cross
Unlike many other high stone crosses, it is largely unadorned, carved from a single, monolithic piece of local Wicklow granite with just the beautiful texture of the stone on display. It is also unusually set, within a granite boulder rather than a traditional base found on other High stone crosses. And finally, it has an un-pierced ring around the head of the cross.
Photo Credit: Ben Crowe ( CC BY-SA 3.0)
The Wishing Cross
Known to many as 'The Wishing Cross,' local legend says that wrapping your arms completely around the entire width of this huge cross will grant you your deepest wish. After centuries of enthusiastic wish-making, the huge cross took on a somewhat alarming lean. Work was carried out in 1989 to straighten and reinforce the foundation of the cross. So now any visitors to this lovely spot can make their wish in safety.
From Granite to Silver
If you would like a "wishing cross" of your own, Aidan Breen, a master Irish silversmith, has taken inspiration from this impressive granite carving in this stunning recreation. Measuring nearly 2 inches high including a polished bale, Aidan has captured the wonderful rough texture and form of the original, all expertly finished. The skill and workmanship are extraordinary.
This 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. Just 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.
Get In Touch
Have a question or something you're not entirely sure about when browsing our pieces? Please reach out. You can send us a note or give us a call—the Dublin workshop is here to make sure that you have a perfect experience from start to finish with My Irish Jeweler.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, to see what's new and upcoming. Join our Email list for early offers and special features.
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.
Comments
Ask Gemma