Tomb of Saint Nicholas, Archaeological site in County Kilkenny, Ireland
The Tomb of Saint Nicholas is a medieval stone sculpture with carved relief showing a cleric figure in the center, flanked by two knight heads on either side. The artwork sits within Jerpoint Park and reveals the religious and military art traditions of the medieval period.
The tomb originates from the medieval period when crusaders transported relics from Myra to Ireland, establishing this sacred site. This tradition connects the Irish island to distant lands that shaped Christian networks during the Age of Crusades.
The site connects to Saint Nicholas of Myra, a revered figure in Christian tradition whose life left a lasting mark on religious practices. Visitors can sense this connection through the way locals speak about and care for the burial place.
To visit the tomb, you need to enter Jerpoint Park, located about 2 miles (3 km) southwest of Thomastown, which is privately owned. Most visits require advance arrangement with the property owners to gain access to the site.
The stone stands near the ruins of Newtown Jerpoint, a medieval settlement that once held roughly two dozen dwellings, a courthouse, and several business buildings. This abandoned community reveals everyday life beyond religious focuses and glimpses into the world of common people from that era.
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