Maughold Celtic Crosses

Maughold Church is one of the oldest churches on the Isle of Man, founded approximately 447 A.D. by Celtic St Maughold who was expelled from Ireland by St Patrick and landed on the coast here towards the end of the 5th century, bringing Christianity with him. An unanswered question in our mind when we visited is why he would have landed on the east coast and not the west coast.

The Church contains a large number of historically important Celtic crosses from the early Christian period (6th-13th Century) and ruins of three keills. It is well worth exploring the graveyard, not just the Celtic crosses as it includes many interesting elements including a World War One memorial and an Archibald Knox designed obelisk with Art Nouveau and Celtic designs that were created for celebrated British novelist, Hall Caine.

All of the stones, from the simplest grave markers, carved using basic tools, to the more elaborate memorials produced by professional sculptors for wealthy clients – reflect the faith, aspirations and resources of the people who raised them.

A short distance from the northeast corner of the churchyard is the well of St Maughold, an ancient holy well that was frequently visited by pilgrims.

There is a small car park in the village with toilets.