Cong Moytura Heritage Society is to host an expert talk on one of Ireland’s foremost national treasures - the Cross of Cong - tomorrow (Saturday ) at 3pm in the Crossroads Community Centre, Cong.
The 12th century ornamental cross is considered one of the finest examples of metalwork and decorative art of its period in western Europe.
It takes its name from Cong Abbey, where it was kept by Augustinian months for centuries.
The cross was originally made in 1123 in Roscommon for Tairrdelbach Ua Conchobair, King of Connacht and High King of Ireland.
It was said to hold a fragment of the ‘true cross’ on which Jesus of Nazareth was crucified.
Dr Griffin Murray of University College Cork has written the first detailed study of the cross and will deliver a talk about his research on Saturday.
The cross is now a treasured part of the national collections and is housed in the National Museum of Ireland, Dublin.
Copies of Dr Murray’s book will be on sale at the event for €45. All profits raised from the event will go to the Cong Moytura Heritage Society.
Admission to the talk is free and refreshments will be served. Booking is advised.
For more information, email [email protected].
