St. Mark's Cross
St. Mark's Cross is a high cross and National Monument located in Blessington, County Wicklow, Ireland.[1][2]
| St. Mark's Cross | |
|---|---|
| Native name Irish: Ardchros Naomh Marcas | |
| St Baoithin's Cross | |
 | |
| Type | High cross |
| Location | Burgage More, Blessington, County Wicklow, Ireland |
| Coordinates | 53.161499°N 6.54141°W |
| Area | Liffey Valley |
| Height | 4.2 metres (14 ft) |
| Built | 12th century AD |
| Official name | St. Mark's Cross |
| Reference no. | 280 |
  Location of St. Mark's Cross in Ireland | |
Location
St. Mark's Cross is presently located at the south wall of Burgage cemetery, Blessington, 600 m (660 yd) west of the River Liffey.[3]
History
St. Mark's Cross was erected in the 12th century next to a church and holy well in Burgage More. In the 19th century, it was also known as Saint Baoithin's Cross. The original site was submerged during the creation of Poulaphouca Reservoir, and the cross was moved to Burgage cemetery.[4]
Description
The cross is made of blue-grey granite and stands 4.3 metres (14 ft) high. The cross has an unpierced ring, unlike most Celtic crosses, and unusually long arms. There is a decorative boss in the centre of both faces. On the base of the cross is a weathered inscription.[5]