Known locally as St. Buadan’s Cross, this National Monument dates from the early medieval period and showcases the intricate artistry that characterised Irish ecclesiastical stonework of the era. Though time has claimed its upper arm and head, which have been sympathetically restored in concrete, the surviving original stonework reveals a masterpiece of symbolic storytelling and decorative skill.

The cross’s two faces tell distinct biblical narratives through carefully carved panels. On the east face, a seated figure holds up a circular plate bearing five small loaves arranged in a cross pattern, with two fish depicted below; most likely representing the miracle of the loaves and fishes. Above this scene, intricate spiral work reminiscent of contemporary metalwork fills the panels, including zoomorphic designs where animals with squared snouts and ear lappets intertwine. The surviving arm fragment shows a small figure with raised hands in the traditional orans prayer position, a common motif in early Christian art.

The west face presents an equally fascinating tableau, featuring what scholars interpret as Saints Paul and Anthony in the desert. Two seated figures with folded hands appear beneath a pair of lion-like creatures with somewhat human features, their front paws crossed. Above each creature’s back emerges the head of a volute crozier, the ceremonial staff carried by abbots and bishops. According to tradition, these lions helped St. Anthony dig a grave for St. Paul, making this panel a touching representation of one of Christianity’s most poignant desert father stories. The entire composition is framed by panels of double-band interlace and geometric patterns, demonstrating the stone carver’s mastery of both figurative and abstract design elements that defined the golden age of Irish high crosses.