Celtic ‘Christ the King’ Clonmacnois plaque by Wild Goose Studio of Ireland

HISTORY

CLONMACNOISE

Clonmacnoise is located on the banks of the River Shannon, Ireland, is a 6th Century monastic site which became a centre of learning excellence. This great monastery was founded in 548- 9 by St. Ciarán Mac a tSaor (“son of the carpenter”), who studied under St. Finian at the famous Clonard Abbey. The site consists of ruins of a cathedral, seven churches and two round towers. The original high crosses, including the magnificent 10th century Cross of the Scriptures are now on display in a purpose built visitor centre adjacent to the monastic enclosure to help preserve them from the weather damage.  Many manuscripts, including the including the Annals of Tighernach (11th century) and the Book of the Dun Cow (12th century), were written here. The monastery flourished for 600 years as a centre of learning and religious instruction as well as providing much of Ireland’s finest Celtic art and illuminated manuscripts. The surrounding area of Clonmacnoise is a microcosm of landscapes within the Midlands. These include the Shannon callows, eskers, boglands both preserved and cutaway.