Cross-slab

The National Monuments Service's description

Twenty cross slabs (WI042-019006-/033-) can be seen scattered about Aghowle graveyard (WI042-019003-), all of which have been reused as upright burial markers, which largely explains the main distribution of the cross slabs in the southern part of the graveyard, coinciding with the main area of 18th and 19th century headstones. It is clear that the majority of the cross slabs were originally intended as recumbent slabs, however, their current use as upright headstones means that most of the slabs are partially concealed, thereby limiting the visible features. The majority are schist slabs, except for Cross slabs 2, 11, 15 and 16 which are of granite (Corlett 2019).
Described by Corlett (2019) as following; 'Cross slab 15 is situated in the western quadrant of Aghowle graveyard (WI042-019003-). It has been reused as a headstone and is firmly embedded in the ground, so that only the top portion is visible above the ground. The granite slab measures 24.5cm wide and 8cm thick, and features an incised cross on the east face. The upper transom is 9cm wide. Only the incised lines forming the upper portion of the arms are visible and extend the full width of the slab. The underside of the arms and the shaft are concealed below the ground surface'.

Compiled by: Chris Corlett and Claire Breen

Revised by: Caimin O'Brien based on details provided by Chris Corlett

Date of revised upload: 12 March 2020

References

Corlett, C. 2019 Archaeological Survey of Aghowle Church and Cross, Co. Wicklow. Unpublished National Monuments Survey Report carried out by Chris Corlett, October 2019.