The collection of Viking stone crosses, housed in Michael Parish Church, are the subject of a new guide book.
’The Michael Crosses’ was written by local historian Michael Clague to offer a greater appreciation and understanding of the stunning collection of cross slabs and monoliths that stand on display in the church, along with other crosses that are held by the Manx Museum.
Bearing impossibly romantic names such as the ’Dragon Cross’ and ’Gaut’s Cross’, the carved stones are a tangible reminder of the island’s rich Viking heritage and mark a time when the Vikings swapped their belief in ancient Norse gods and became Christian.
Michael said he was moved to write the book after he noticed that the information made available at the church had not changed or been updated over many years.
'A black and white leaflet about the wonderful 1,000 year-old cross-slabs has been available in the church for many years,’ said Michael.
'It has been difficult, however, for some visitors to identify each cross, as the I.D numbers on them can be almost inaccessible, without lying on the floor.
‘The new booklet, I hope, is an easy read, and will help visitors to know which cross is which, and find the significant and fascinating carvings, including runic inscriptions, on them.’
The softback book features detailed photographs and explanation of the designs, marking and writings carved into the stone.
It is available, priced £6, from the Dovecote Tearooms in Kirk Michael, and Memorabilia in St Paul’s Square, Ramsey.
'Both the shops have been extremely generous, and are selling the booklets with no profit for themselves, so we can hopefully raise more funds for the church,’ said Michael.
Alternatively, books can be ordered on 878328, or by emailing themichael.crosses@gmail.com.
SOURCE: IOM Today
“NEW book details Michael's historic crosses”. IOM Today. Isle of Man. 11 may 2021. 11 may 2021. <http://www.iomtoday.co.im/article.cfm?id=61769&headline=New%20book%20details%20Michael%27s%20historic%20crosses&searchyear=2021>.
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