MONASTERBOICE

This historic site, 8 km from the town of Drogheda, has a mysterious, even mystical atmosphere. Of the monastic complex, founded in the^5th century, there are hardly any traces left (today there are the ruins of two churches and a round tower over 30 metres high, one of the largest in the country, by the way), but you can go there to admire two of the most beautiful Celtic crosses in Ireland: the Muiredach's Cross and the West Cross. The first, located at the entrance to the magnificent cemetery, is about 5 metres high and dates from the 10th century; the second, more slender, is over 6 metres high and is located near the round tower. The sides bear various important scenes, Adam and Eve, the Magi, St. Peter and St. Paul; particular attention should be paid to the left arm of the Muirendach cross which bears the hand of God..

The sculpture begins on the side panel, vertically, with two interlacing snakes embracing three human heads, before ending, horizontally, with the hand of God dominating our heads. The West Cross is more damaged; however, on the east side we can see David killing a lion and a bear, the sacrifice of Isaac, David with the head of Goliath and on the west side the Crucifixion, the Resurrection, the kiss of Judas and the baptism of Christ. The Celtic crosses, which were originally intended to be coloured, had a religious education function. To get the most out of the mysterious atmosphere at this historic site, early morning or sunset is best.