The modern graveyard may follow the curve of an ancient enclosure, whilst inside its walls stand the remnants of a church that served the local community from at least 1622 until a new building replaced it in 1820. Today, only the eastern gable survives at its full height, along with sections of the north and south walls. The structure displays an intriguing architectural timeline; its three-light east window with switch-line tracery likely dates from the 17th century, whilst a blocked rectangular window in the south wall appears considerably older, suggesting the church incorporated elements from an earlier building.

The real treasure of Fahan is St. Mura’s cross-slab, standing 2.1 metres tall southeast of the ruined church. This remarkable stone monument, carved on both faces with Latin crosses formed from interlaced ribbon work, showcases the sophisticated artistry of early Irish Christianity. The eastern face features two birds facing each other above the cross, whilst the western side depicts two figures standing on either side of the cross stem. Adding to its mystique, scholars have identified a Greek inscription along the north edge reading ‘Glory and honour to the father the son and holy spirit’, a rare example of Greek text in medieval Irish stonework. Small arms protrude from the slab at the point where the cross arms meet, giving this ancient monument an almost anthropomorphic quality.

Archaeological investigations in 2000 revealed hints of the site’s deeper past when human remains, possibly over a century old, were discovered during roadworks near the graveyard. The location’s spiritual significance extends beyond the churchyard walls; about 350 metres northwest, close to the lough shore, a holy well dedicated to St. Mura continues to mark this valley as sacred ground. Additional carved stones built into the graveyard walls, including a small wheeled cross and a mysterious bored stone near the entrance, suggest Fahan was once adorned with numerous early Christian monuments, making it a significant ecclesiastical centre in this corner of Donegal.