Medieval Sundial

 

Sundial on Inishmore

Christy Cunniffe

Sundials where they occur are associated with Early Christian ecclesiastical sites. The ability to mark time was important to the monastic community as the monks day was regulated into specific hours for ritual purposes. They are quite scarce, and are only found at a handful of sites. This example on Inishmore consists of a decorated pillar with an elaborate ringed headed cross at the base, and a circular ring with a vertical line upon which the gnomon would have cast a shadow above that. A hole appears above this where the (wooden ?) gnomon would have been fitted. It is located in the graveyard east of Teampaill Chiaráin church.