Their investigation revealed something far more intriguing: a possible medieval stone cross base, carefully carved from granite and hidden beneath the earth for centuries. The discovery required excavating a pit measuring roughly 1.20m by 1.35m, which exposed not just the cross base but also two other stone features that may have been part of the original structure.

The cross base itself stands 60cm high and displays the hallmarks of skilled craftsmanship, particularly on its eastern face where the granite has been smoothly dressed and finely finished. The western side remains rougher, with a bulbous, unfinished appearance lower down, suggesting the stone was meant to be viewed primarily from one direction. The base widens as it descends, creating a stable triangular form, whilst the top features a carefully carved rectangular socket, 43cm long and 14cm wide, designed to hold an upright cross shaft. This socket deepens slightly towards its southern end, perhaps to provide additional stability for whatever cross once stood here.

Alongside the cross base, two other stones add to the mystery of this site. A plain granite slab, standing at the same height as the cross base, runs parallel to it just 30cm away; this may have formed part of a protective structure, though it also aligns with other upright stones crossing the graveyard from south to north, possibly marking an ancient boundary within the original monastic enclosure. More curious still is a water-rolled granite boulder pressed against the southern side of the cross base. Its smooth, rounded form bears an uncanny resemblance to the cursing stones found on the leacht at Inishmurray, Sligo, raising questions about whether it served a ritual purpose or simply helped support the cross base. Together, these stones offer a tantalising glimpse into the island’s early Christian heritage, preserved by chance beneath the graveyard soil.