Famous Celtic Crosses Around the World
- Feb 9
- 3 min read
In ancient times, Celtic crosses were erected throughout what is known today as Europe, with the vast majority of them in Ireland and Scotland. Dating as far back as 8 AD, some have become famed relics that are still deeply treasured to this day.
The tall, ringed crosses that were intricately carved from stone served as visual cues, providing sermons through biblical tales and displaying meaningful knotwork that has made them a central focus in Celtic heritage.
Where to See the Most Famous Celtic Crosses in the World
Whether you want to delve deeper into your Celtic roots or want to plan some sightseeing tours on your travels, you’ll primarily find Celtic crosses in Ireland and Scotland, though some notable ones can be found elsewhere.
Famous Irish Celtic Crosses
One of the most well-preserved and notable Celtic crosses is Muiredach's High Cross, located in Monasterboice, County Louth. It resides at this ruined monastic site, and while there are two other high crosses there, Muiredach’s is locally known as the South Cross, the most impressive example of Irish stonework from early medieval times.
The Cross of the Scriptures in Clonmacnoise, County Offaly, is famed for its intricate biblical carvings. It showcases the crucifixion, the last judgment, and many stories of Christ, serving as a pictorial depiction that could spread these teachings even to the illiterate.
You can find St. Kevin’s Cross in Glendalough, County Wicklow, a solid granite Celtic cross that has been dubbed “The Wishing Cross.” Legend has it that if you wrap your arms around it and touch your fingertips together, it grants wishes.
Famous Scottish Celtic Crosses
Scotland has its own famed Celtic crosses as well. The Kildalton Cross is truly a marvel of early Christian art, as it was carved from a single stone. This stunning reminder sits in the churchyard of the former parish church on the island of Islay.
Iona Abbey Crosses are not to be missed either. There are several at this location in Iona, which include St. Martin’s Cross, deemed the most significant. This relic is still extant, holding true from the 8th or 9th century, while the St. John’s Cross features a replica outside, the original having been moved to a museum. Among these Celtic Crosses, you’ll also find MacLean’s Cross, a later addition from the 15th century that marks the routes of pilgrims past and showcases the splendid intricacy of Christian art in the form of biblical scenes.
Other Celtic Crosses
You’ll find the most famous Celtic crosses in Ireland and Scotland, though they are around in other places, largely due to missionary efforts to spread Christianity. The Ruthwell Cross resides in England, a famed intricate carving that influenced many designs in Britain. The Dartmoor Crosses are also in England, but in the southwest, are another set of famous Celtic crosses. In Surrey, the Kingswood War Memorial is a modern construction built to acknowledge traditional Celtic designs.
Outside of England, in both Lugasson and Père-Lachaise, Celtic Crosses can be found in areas where Irish missionaries spread the gospel. Modern adoptions are prevalent in many Paris cemeteries. Vintrosa in Sweden also has a Celtic cross, suggesting that English missionaries tried to bring their influence, and in Norway, there are roughly 60 Celtic crosses, some even dating back to the Viking Age.
The Modern Global Presence of Celtic Crosses
When Celtic crosses were first erected ages ago, they were used as outdoor tools to teach those who could not read and spread the teachings of Christ. The gospel stories depicted in pictorial form attracted many people, and marked monastic sites by blending Celtic art with Christian themes.
Today, a Celtic revival is still present. Celtic crosses can be seen as monuments and memorials. They are also commonly used as grave markers around the world, far from their humble beginnings. Erecting a Celtic cross in your yard to display your heritage may not be possible, but with Celtic cross jewelry, you can take the treasures of the past with you everywhere you go.
Wearing a Celtic cross is a beautiful symbol of your Christian faith and Celtic heritage, united as one. This cross, with its distinctive circle, was historically viewed as a powerful charm to bring courage and strength while warding away evil. It also represents eternity and God’s infinite love that can help you navigate the complexities of life while feeling confident in your own abilities. You may just find that wearing one helps you remember to focus on inner peace as you move through life, perhaps around the world to see these famed Celtic crosses.
