The internationally-famous high crosses at Monasterboice, Co Louth, may be moved indoors to protect them from erosion by weather and pollution.
Some erosion is already visible, including a crack in one of the most important crosses.
A conservation study on the monastic site, just outside Drogheda, says there are between 70,000 and 100,000 visitors to it each year and the tour guides work on a voluntary basis.
Monasterboice is best known for its round tower and high crosses. The crosses contain figure sculptures and particularly significant is Muiredach’s Cross, which is widely acknowledged to be one of the finest monuments of its kind in the Republic. However, it has a crack at least one foot long which cuts through one of the panels depicting the Apostles.
Locals who have kept the site open to the public for many years are now being asked for their opinions on a conservation study which was carried out by archaeological company Margaret Gowen Ltd and commissioned by the Office of Public Works, the Department of the Environment and Louth County Council.
The council says the study claims “the crosses are being eroded by the weather and atmospheric pollution, as well as being at risk from vandalism, and that this exposure will cause severe damage to a globally-important monument if allowed to continue”.
via The Irish Times
