High Cross of Durrow Pendant & Necklace

Before entering Britain, he constructed a prestigious monastery in Ireland that is now known as “Dermach,” or the “field of oaks,” due to the large quantity of oak trees there. According to an early author, St. Columba, also known as St. Columcille, founded the monastery at Durrow.

Nearly in the middle of Ireland is Durrow. The structures built during and after the lifetime of St. Columba, who passed away in AD 597, are mostly gone now. One stunning Celtic Cross, now known as the Cross of Durrow, is still standing, nevertheless.

Pray for Dubtach who built this cross, according to a scarcely readable inscription at the base of the cross. From 927 to 938 AD, Dubtach served as the leader of the Columban order. The crucifix is delicately carved from white sandstone. The Crucifixion is depicted on the West face of the cross, but as usual, there are people in the background. The scenes that follow most likely correspond to Passion-related events. There are guards guarding the grave at the base of the cross. The triumph of Christ—Christ in Judgment—is depicted on the east face. David is nearby playing a harp or lyre. He was a very esteemed character because his psalms were virtually always chanted in the monasteries.

The sacrifice of Isaac is also shown on this face, and three angelic beings can be seen at the bottom. Is this the Holy Family or the Trinity? It could very well be both.

Like always on the Irish Crosses, there are many lovely interlace panels, and they are all unique. This cross was extremely significant and served as a symbol of Durrow’s importance. In the Long Room of the library at Trinity College, Dublin, we receive a second view of the significance of the Durrow abbey.

The Book of Kells is popular among visitors because of its exquisite illustrations and calligraphy. Few people are aware of the Book of Durrow, a Gospels copy created about a century earlier that is also on exhibit in the Long Room. It is a more manageable size with careful planning. Beautiful initial capital letters at the start of each Gospel, pages of the design facing the opening pages of the Gospels, and a full-page emblem for each of the Four Evangelists are all there.