Learn about Donegal Square
Welcome to Donegal Square! Our goal is to bring the best of Ireland and the British Isles straight to you, as if you were visiting Ireland with your friends and family…no passport required of course!
Ancient Celtic crosses are the one of the oldest and most common structures in
Ireland, and many are seen throughout its countryside and cemeteries. These crosses are considered the most important achievement in Irish sculpture history. There are many interpretations of the cross’ meaning. Some believe that the horizontal bar of the cross represents the earthly world and that the vertical portion represents heaven. The conjoining portion represents the connection between heaven and earth. Other scholars believe that the number four holds great significance with four arms of the cross, representing north-south-east-west, fire-earth-air-water, and mind-body-soul-spirit.
The Celtic Cross was also known as the Sun Cross or Sun Wheel and was a symbol of Odin, the Norse god. The circle in the center of the Celtic cross represents the modern sun. Per modern interpretations, the Celtic cross’ circular portion symbolizes eternal life and God’s infinite love.
According to Irish legend, St. Patrick introduced the first Celtic cross after the Celts had told him of a sacred stone that they worshipped, which represented the moon goddess. St Patrick made the mark of Latin cross through the circle and blessed the stone, creating the first Celtic cross.