This spot once held an important high cross, designated as National Monument number 271, which appeared on historical Ordnance Survey maps from 1836 and 1907 simply marked as ‘Cross’. The monument’s original location is now commemorated, whilst the cross itself has been relocated for its own protection.

The high cross, along with two associated stone sculptures, faced the relentless Irish weather for centuries before concerns about erosion prompted their removal to safer quarters. These precious artefacts now reside under cover just east of Carndonagh graveyard, where visitors can still appreciate their intricate stonework and historical significance. The move was essential to preserve these examples of early Christian art, which represent some of Ireland’s most important religious and cultural heritage.

For those tracking down these monuments today, they’re catalogued under new reference numbers at their current location: DG011-035009, DG011-035010, and DG011-035011. The original site remains marked as DG011-035007 and DG011-035008 for the sculptures, serving as a reminder of where these ancient stones once stood sentinel over the Donegal landscape. This careful documentation ensures that whilst the physical monuments have moved, their historical context and original placement remain part of the archaeological record.