Clonca High Cross

Clonca High Cross, located just outside Culdaff in Inishowen, County Donegal, is one of the most important early Christian heritage sites on the peninsula. Founded in the 6th century, Clonca was a significant centre in the development and spread of Christianity across Inishowen and was favoured by bishops as a final resting place.

The greatest treasure of the site — often called the “Glory of Clonca” — is its striking High Cross. Standing approximately 4 metres tall, the cross rises from the field beside the church ruins and is richly carved with early Christian imagery. A second, partially complete cross lies fallen in the same field, hinting at the former scale and importance of the monastic settlement.

Adjacent to the cross stands the ruined 17th-century Planter’s Church, which replaced an earlier medieval church on the site. Inside the church ruins, visitors can see beautifully carved stones and cross slabs, many dating back to the early Christian period.

Clonca was once a much larger monastic complex and played a central role in the conversion of a large part of Inishowen. Some of its carved stones and crosses are now preserved in the National Museum of Ireland. The close proximity of other early Christian foundations at Carrowmore and Culdaff highlights this area as a great seat of learning, skill, and spiritual influence during the early medieval period.

Today, Clonca High Cross remains a peaceful and evocative place to visit — a powerful reminder of Inishowen’s deep Christian heritage, set against the open fields and wide skies of north Donegal.

Visiting Clonca High Cross

Location: Near Culdaff, Inishowen, County Donegal
GPS: 55.268694, -7.173945

Directions:
Take the R238 south from Culdaff for approximately 1.5 km. At St Mary’s Church, turn right and continue for about 1.8 km. The site is located in a field on the left and is well signposted.

Nearby Attractions to Explore

While visiting Clonca High Cross, consider adding these nearby attractions to your itinerary:

Culdaff Beach – A beautiful Blue Flag sandy beach just minutes from Culdaff village, ideal for swimming, walking, surfing, and enjoying expansive Atlantic views.

Bocan Stone Circle – A well-preserved Bronze Age stone circle set on Bocan Hill near Culdaff, offering panoramic views and insight into Inishowen’s prehistoric landscape.

True North Boating, Bunagee Pier – Experience Inishowen’s dramatic coastline from the sea with guided boat trips from nearby Bunagee Pier, showcasing cliffs, wildlife, and open-ocean scenery.