Overview

Maughold was named after a minor Celtic saint, Machaoi, and is believed to have been the main pre-Norse religious community on the Isle of Man.

The parish produced the largest collection of crosses and slabs during the early Christian period, between the 6th and 13th centuries, and you can view many of these by visiting the churchyard.

Once the site of a Celtic monastery, in around 600 AD, the churchyard was also home to three chapels – the current of which dates back to between 1000AD and 1100AD.

Many of the 44 crosses at Kirk Maughold parish church are Celtic and some reveal the names of the priests and bishops from the former monastery.

You’ll also find some Norse crosses which show scenes from the story of Sigurd the Dragon Slayer. The integration between the Vikings and Celts in the Isle of Man is also depicted by stone memorials which have been carved with runic inscriptions recording both Scandinavian and native Gaelic names.

Location

Maughold Church and Stone Crosses are located near to Ramsey in the north of the Island.

Admission is free, disabled access is limited.

Contact

Maughold Church and Stone Crosses are under the protection of Manx National Heritage.

For more information telephone 01624 648017 or visit www.manxnationalheritage.im.