Dating from after 1000 AD, this church represents a significant shift in building techniques from earlier structures in the area. Its construction showcases the work of skilled masons who carefully selected uniform stones, creating a notably tight and neat fit throughout the structure, though the lower courses still incorporate some impressively large stones, particularly visible at the north-east corner.

What makes this church particularly intriguing is its architectural refinement compared to earlier buildings nearby. The doorway, positioned along the long south side rather than the more typical western entrance, hints at changing liturgical practices or architectural influences. Archaeological evidence suggests the church sits deliberately apart from the cluster of earlier religious buildings, positioned near the summit of a knoll slightly to the west of the original ecclesiastical focus. This spatial arrangement, combined with the sophisticated masonry work, points to a later construction phase.

Scholars believe the church may have been built by Augustinian Canons Regular during the 12th century, representing a new chapter in the site’s religious history. The Augustinians, known for their organised approach to monastic life and architectural patronage, would have had both the resources and expertise to commission such a well-crafted building. The church’s regular proportions and accomplished stonework reflect the broader European influences that were reshaping Irish ecclesiastical architecture during this period, making it a valuable example of how international monastic movements left their mark on the Irish landscape.