Killare Grave Slab (WM024-057002-)

3D Model

Killare (Cill Áir/Cill Fháir) monastery was founded in the late 6th century by Áed Mac Bricc of Rahugh. The ruins of a church (WM024-057----) dedicated to St. Aodh (anglicised Hugh) are visible in the N quadrant of Killare graveyard (WM024-057001-). 3 metres to the east of the SE corner of the church are the partial remains of a broken grave slab (L 0.74m x top Wth 0.43m x T 0.19m; base Wth 0.52m) lying on the surface of the graveyard. The slab is decorated with a Celtic Revival cross-knot or multi-strand / plait-work cross (Solomon’s knot) with possible fleur-de-lys / floral terminals with an equal-armed Greek cross in the centre of the ring. An inscription in false relief capitals runs around the edge of the stone, which reads; ‘Aeneas Mac Gilacrine HIRE VN ANMANAND NEY.....S. Aeneas is the Latin name for Aonghus, meaning great or excellent strength. Could be the grave slab of Aonghus Mac Giolla Chlaoin, anglicised Kilcline. The plaited knot could be interpreted as a symbol of infinity.