Fahan Graveyard and Monastery

Fahan Graveyard

Fahan graveyard can be found in the village of Fahan in the ruins of a 6th-century monastery featuring a 7th-century cross-slab of St. Mura (Fahan High Cross), and the ruins of a 16th-century monastery and 17th-century church.

The original monastery was built by St. Colmcille in the 6th century and was originally known as Othan Mor. St. Colmcille appointed St. Mura as first Abbot of the monastery and after his death, the name changed to St Mura.

In the current graveyard around the monastery, there is an ancient cross-slab, the Fahan High Cross Slab which also dates from the 6th century. The design of the cross pre-dates the high crosses of Ireland.

The area of the monastery and village were extensively sacked by Vikings in the 10th and 13th centuries.

The ruins of the church in the graveyard that is still standing date back to the 17th century.

Also in the graveyard, you will find the grave of Agness Jones (1832 – 1868) who trained with Florence Nightingale and served as a nurse in the Crimean War. She was also the first trained Nursing Superintendent of Liverpool Workhouse Infirmary.

You can help preserve this ancient monument by visiting and donating at the Fahan Heritage website.