The future of some of the famous early Christian high crosses in the
country has been guaranteed thanks to a recently announced conservation
plan by the Office of Public Works (OPW).
Under the plan a team of conservation and historic building
consultants has been appointed by the OPW for the preservation of the
Western Ossory Crosses, which includes the High Crosses of Ahenny and
Kilkieran near Carrick-on-Suir in County Tipperary.
These High Crosses form part of the group of the earliest ringed high
crosses in Ireland and are of great historical and cultural
importance.
Dating back nearly 1,500 years they are the earliest
example of such high crosses in western Europe.
Speaking to ciNews, local Councillor Bobby Fitzgerald said, “It's important in any conservation process to assess
fabric loss, damage and possible movement of the crosses. The fact that
this is being monitored is very welcome.”
He added, “I'm delighted
that the over-riding principle of the specialist team will be the
retention of authenticity of the crosses with the primary aim to keep
the crosses on their present sites.”
The conservation plan for the high crosses of western Ossory will
include such measures as, improved access to and within the sites,
protection from weathering and the ability to provide meaningful
information about the sites and their importance to the public.
It is also expected that landowners of the sites will be involved in
the decision-making process, especially with regard to the protection of
views.
Cllr Fitzgerald told ciNews, “Our heritage is of vital importance,
both culturally and economically. The move by the OPW will serve to
protect this local heritage; will give a sense of ownership of the
historical diamond in our midst and will add to our growing reputation
as a centre of cultural excellence.”