Monasterboice

Mainistir Bhuithe ( Monasterboice ) is a ruined abbey of Iroschottischen Church in Ireland in County Louth, founded by Saint Buite (or Saint Buithe mac Bronach ) ( † 521). It was abandoned in 1097 after a fire, but the cemetery is, as usual, used in Ireland today. It is famous for its round tower and the three sandstone - high crosses of the 9th century.

The Cross of Muiredach is 5.2 m high. His ornament, and the scenes are very well preserved. The east side - from the Old Testament - show Christ mocked by the Romans, above Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden and Cain who kills Abel. In the West, it bears scenes from the New Testament. Its name comes by an inscription on the base, which tells us that it was erected by Muiredach.

The big cross or West Cross is at 6.5 m height, the largest in Ireland. Especially is the representation of the crucifixion of Jesus. Because of its size many images are carved. Among other things, on the east side:

• The baptism of Jesus
• Christ in the grave
• David with the Head of Goliath
• Moses Striking Water from a rock
• Pilate washes his hands
• Samson, who put down the pillars of the temple
• Temptation of St. Anthony
• Samuel anoints David

Even a well-preserved, 35 m high circular tower made ​​of natural stone, which lacks only its roof, stands on the site.