Balrath Cross

Balrath Cross is a wayside cross and National Monument located in County Meath, Ireland.

Crucifixion scene (west face)

Balrath Cross

Cros Bhaile an Rátha
East face
Shown within Ireland
Location	Balrath, Athboy, County Meath, Ireland
Coordinates	53.62342636°N 6.48694251°W / 53.62342636; -6.48694251
Type	Wayside cross
Height	182 cm (6 ft 0 in)
History
Builder	John Broin?
Material	Stone
Founded	late 16th century AD
Site notes
Public access	Yes
Designation	National Monument

Location

Balrath Cross is located 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) southwest of Laytown.^[1]

History

The cross is believed to have been carved in the late 16th century.^[2] It was re-erected in 1727 by the Aylmer family of Balrath. Around 2014 it was moved to accommodate the widening of the N2 road.^[3][4]

Description

A stone cross 182 cm (6 ft 0 in) tall. The arms span 58 cm (1 ft 11 in), and the shaft is 28 cm × 23 cm (11 in × 9 in) at its base.^[3]

The east face contains a Pietà and a Latin inscription (ORATEPAIA JOHANIB ROIN, a shortening of Orate pro anima Johanis Broin, "pray for the soul of John Broin").^[5] The west face shows a crucifixion scene.^[3]

There is an inscription on it saying Sir Andrew Aylmer of Mountaylmer Bart and his Lady Catherine Aylmer had this cross beautified A. D. 1727.^[6]