Clones Attractions
13mi/21km southwest of Monaghan, on the border with Northern Ireland, lies Clones, the site of a monastery founded by St Tighearnach in the sixth century. Clones crochet lace, once widely exported, is still made here. Examples of this beautiful handwork can be seen in the Clones Lace Gallery (opening times given).
In the main square, the Diamond, can be seen a 15ft/4.5m high cross (10th C., restored; National Monument) with representations of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Daniel in the Lions' Den and the Arrest of Christ on the west side, and the Adoration of the Kings, the Twelve Apostles (?), the Last Supper and the Crucifixion on the east side.
In an ancient graveyard are a 75ft/23m high round tower and a church-shaped tomb with finials. In another graveyard nearby stands a ruined 12th C. church known as the Abbey (National Monument). In both graveyards are a number of unusual 17th and 18th C. tombstones.
In the main square, the Diamond, can be seen a 15ft/4.5m high cross (10th C., restored; National Monument) with representations of Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel, Daniel in the Lions' Den and the Arrest of Christ on the west side, and the Adoration of the Kings, the Twelve Apostles (?), the Last Supper and the Crucifixion on the east side.
In an ancient graveyard are a 75ft/23m high round tower and a church-shaped tomb with finials. In another graveyard nearby stands a ruined 12th C. church known as the Abbey (National Monument). In both graveyards are a number of unusual 17th and 18th C. tombstones.
Ulster Canal Stores
It is an 18th C. stone canal warehouse with a mounted history of hand-craft during the Great Famine. This is the starting point for walking, cycling and town trails.
