Two of Ireland’s earliest High Crosses

The 2 Carrowmore High Crosses are the most primitive-looking of the 6 located on Inishowen. The Carrowmore West Cross has short arms and no carvings and may date from as early as the 7th century while the East Cross is taller and has carvings of a forward-facing Christ figure. Christ’s arms are also concealed by a long robe and flanked on either side by an angel that appears to be whispering something into the ears of Christ. Irish stone crosses developed over time from granite pillars to carved slabs that eventually became the highly ornate crosses that have become famous throughout the World. The ancient monastery at Carrowmore was founded in the 6th century by Conas, husband of Dareaca, who was reputedly a sister of St Patrick himself!