St Flannan’s 12th Century Cathedral and the 1st Century Ogham Stone: Killaloe, Co Clare

St Flannan’s Cathedral, often called Killaloe Cathedral, gives a fine example of the style of churches built in the West of Ireland during the transition between the Romanesque and Gothic periods in the 12th century. As a result, the mostly Gothic church shows signs of earlier styles… especially in the east window which lacks the pointed arch common in Gothic designs. St Flannan’s is also made with windows and carved stone from earlier churches.

Within the church, an ogham stone carved with ancient Gaelic writing dates to the first century, the era of King Brian Ború. The stone was discovered in 1916 and has the unique distinction of also including a Scandinavian script inscription known as Runes. Some believe it may have been carved by a Viking who converted to Christianity. The message reads “Thorgrimr carved this cross and the Ogham: A blessing on Thorgrimr.”

• Official Website: St Flannan’s Cathedral
• Irish Antiquities: St Flannan’s Cathedral
• Clare County Library: St Flannan
• Ogham Stone Photo Credit: Saints and Stones

Submitted by John O’Shea and Michael Webb

John O’Shea and Michael Webb own Glocca Morra B&B, a 4 Star Fáilte Ireland Approved Bed and Breakfast situated in Ogonnelloe, Killaloe, Scarriff, County Clare. Offering breathtaking views of Lough Derg, the Slieve Bernagh Mountains of Clare, and the Arra Mountains of Tipperary, John and Michael invite you to come and discover the history and majestic land of King Brian Ború, High King of Ireland, and follow his footsteps through Brian Ború Country!