11 Mar Cross of Cong
A hidden gem worth viewing on any tours of Ireland.
It is an elegant processional cross, dating from circa 1125.
The cross was commissioned by the High King ” Turlough O’Connor” to house a relic of the True Cross , which was covered by a rock crystal at the center of one side.
The shaft and undulating arms are decorated with ornamental glass studs and panels bearing animal interlace typical of the Irish variant of the Scandinavian Urnes style.
Arguably the finest piece of Irish 12th century metalwork , the cross was probably made in a Roscommon workshop.
It is now on display in the National Museum of Ireland in Dublin.
It is also accessible from Belfast on our extended Belfast tours.
If you are on any Ireland tours consider seeing the real hidden gems that are so characteristic of Ireland.