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Monasterboice
A few kilometres north of Drogheda, just off the M1, you can visit the ruins of Monasterboice.
The monastery of Monasterboice was founded in the late fifth century by Saint Buite and flourished during the tenth and eleventh century as a centre of learning. In the early twelfth century, after a fire has destroyed the round tower with its treasures and documents, the monastery community ended.
This site is well known for the round tower, which is despite the fire pretty good preserved and for its three High Crosses.
Muiredach's Cross
High Cross Monasterboice
(authors collection)
Especially the carvings and themes on the South Cross, or Muiredach's Cross, are after all these centuries of exposure to the climate, still impressive and very well preserved. This Cross is generally dated in the early 10th century.
The West Cross, or Tall Cross, on the other hand is more weather-beaten, but its height (approximately six meters) makes a visit worthwhile.
Not as tall as the West Cross and not rich decorated as the South Cross is the North Cross. The North Cross is a bit stashed away in a corner of the graveyard, but your efforts to find it will be rewarded with the sight of spiral-like patterns on the east side of the Cross.