Killamery High Cross facts for kids
The
Quick facts for kids Killamery High Cross |
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| Native name Irish: Ardchros Chill Lamraí |
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| The Maelsechnaill Cross The Snake-Dragon Cross |
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| Type | High cross |
| Location | Killamery, County Kilkenny, Ireland |
| Area | Anner Valley |
| Height | 3.65 metres (12.0 ft) |
| Built | 9th century AD |
| Official name: Killamery Cross | |
| Reference no. | 75 |
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The Killamery Cross is a very old and important stone cross found in Killamery, a place in County Kilkenny, Ireland. It was made way back in the 800s, during the 9th century. This special cross is considered a National Monument, which means it's protected because of its history and beauty. You can find it standing tall in the northern part of the Killamery graveyard.
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History of the Killamery Cross
A long time ago, in the year 632 AD, a monastery (a place where monks live and pray) was started in Killamery. It was founded by a person called St Gobhan, who was a student of Saint Fursey.
The Killamery High Cross is part of a group of crosses found in the western Ossory area. These crosses were so well-made that they became a design for many smaller high crosses. These smaller crosses are now sold all over the world as a symbol of Ireland.
Old Beliefs About the Cross
People who lived nearby used to believe that touching the very top stone of the cross could help cure headaches. It was a local tradition passed down through generations.
What the Cross Looks Like
The Killamery Cross is quite tall, standing about 3.65 metres (12.0 ft) high. It has many interesting carvings on its main part, called the shaft. You can see detailed marigold flowers carved into the stone.
Symbols and Stories on the Cross
In the middle of the round part of the cross, there's a raised bump called a boss. This boss is surrounded by carvings of snakes that twist and turn together. Above the boss, there's a carving of a dragon with its mouth open. Because of these unique carvings, the cross is sometimes called "The Snake-Dragon Cross."
On the western side of the cross, there's a sun swastika in the center. You can also spot carvings that tell stories, like Adam and Eve, a scene of people hunting a stag (a type of deer), and a procession with a chariot. The very top of the cross has a pointed, roof-like cap-stone. Other carvings show important figures like Noah and John the Baptist.
At the bottom of the cross, there's an old inscription (a carved message). It says OR DO MAELSECHNAILL, which means "a prayer for Máel Sechnaill." Máel Sechnaill was a very important leader, the high king of Ireland, from 846 to 862 AD.
Other Interesting Finds Nearby
Besides the main cross, there are other old things to see in the area.
Ancient Stone Slab
There's an older stone slab with a carving that says OROIT AR ANMAIN N-AEDAIN. This means "Pray for the soul of Áedáin." It shows that people have been praying and remembering others here for a very long time.
Bullaun Stones and Holy Well
You can also find two special stones called bullaun stones. These stones have bowl-shaped hollows in them, and their exact use is still a bit of a mystery, though they might have been used for grinding or rituals. Close by, there is also a holy well known as St Goban's Well, named after the saint who founded the monastery.
