Cross-slab, Aighan, Co. Donegal

Cross-slab, Aighan, Co. Donegal

In the rolling pastures near Bruckless in County Donegal stands a remarkable religious site known locally as the 'Relig'.

Cross-slab, Aighan, Co. Donegal

This ancient sacred enclosure stretches approximately 32 metres from northeast to southwest and 21 metres from northwest to southeast, surrounded by a substantial wall nearly two metres thick. The site sits dramatically between a laneway on one side and a small rock cliff on the other, its weathered stones bearing witness to centuries of devotion and pilgrimage.

The interior holds seven small cairns, with the most significant being a subcircular mound measuring roughly 4 metres by 3 metres and rising just over a metre in height. Atop this cairn rest several intriguing stones, including two slabs with distinctive U-shaped notches carved into their tops; local tradition holds that a dumbbell-shaped ‘healing stone’ was once kept in these hollows when not in use, according to Victorian antiquarian Patterson. Perhaps most striking is a cross-inscribed slab decorated on both faces with elaborate Greek bar crosses, circles, and geometric patterns, showcasing the sophisticated artistry of early Irish Christianity. The site also features St. Conall’s Bed, a curious D-shaped projection carved from the cliff face that forms a natural seat, suggesting this was once a place of contemplation and prayer.



Beyond the main enclosure lies St. Conall’s holy well, encircled by a penitential cairn containing another notched stone, indicating the site’s continued use for religious observances over many generations. The Relig served multiple sacred purposes throughout its long history; most poignantly, it became a cilín or burial ground for unbaptised children in the 19th century, a practice that speaks to both the enduring sanctity of the place and the complex religious traditions of rural Ireland. Though a bullaun stone or primitive font was reportedly removed from the site in the 1800s, what remains offers a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s layered spiritual heritage, where pre-Christian traditions merged seamlessly with early Christianity.

0.0/5

Good to Know

Tags

Visitor Notes

Review type for post source and places source type not found
Added by
Picture of IrishHistory.com
IrishHistory.com
IrishHistory.com is passionate about helping people discover and connect with the rich stories of their local communities.
Please use the form below to submit any photos you may have of Cross-slab, Aighan, Co. Donegal. We're happy to take any suggested edits you may have too. Please be advised it will take us some time to get to these submissions. Thank you.
Name
Email
Message
Upload images/documents
Maximum file size: 50 MB
If you'd like to add an image or a PDF please do it here.

Aighan, Co. Donegal
54.64494779, -8.38752091
54.64494779,-8.38752091
Aighan 
Crosses & Monuments 

Related Places