The Tomb of the Jealous Man and Woman |
Although only parts of the nave and chancel survive today, it is easy to get the impression of just how massive this cathedral would have been. You can still see many of the fine decorative flourishes in the stonework, and it has lovely lancet windows. The piscina where the priest used to wash the holy vessels during the mass is also still well preserved.
The site is famous for the remarkable 16th Century tomb of Sir Lucas Dillon and his wife, Lady Jayne Bathe. The two stone effigies on the tomb are separated by a sword of state. The tomb is known locally as 'The Tomb of the Jealous Man and Woman', it is believed that instead of signifying the sword of state, the sword actually represents Sir Lucas' displeasure at his wife for having an affair, forever separating the two. It is believed that the tomb possesses a cure for warts and skin complaints. Rub your wart on a pin and leave the pin on top of the tomb, as the pin rusts the wart withers and falls off. I cannot speak personally for whether this works, but I did notice a large number of pins on the tomb!
The tomb has some unusual scenes depicted on each side |
Very close to the Cathedral is another superb medieval site – the Priory of St.John the Baptist, I'll cover that site next week.
As always if there are any sites you recommend or that you would like me to cover please send me an email at info@abartaaudioguides.com and if you'd like to enjoy the sensational story of Ireland you can download one of our audioguides from www.abartaaudioguides.com (also available on iTunes, Amazon Mp3, Sony Quirocity and Eircom Music Hub). The guides are as enjoyable from the comfort of your favourite armchair at home as they are at the sites.