Ireland; Co. Offlay; ruins of Clonmacnoise (former monastery): "Cross of the Scriptures" (replica of the High Cross) in front of the Cathedral (also: Temple McDermot). The so called Cross of the Scriptures is a 4 m high corss made of sandstone and one of the most prestigious high crosses in Ireland. It was built around 900 most probably by Flann Sinna; King of Ireland; and Abbot Colm醤. The surface of the cross is divided in panels; showing religious scenes (Crucifixion; Last Judgement; Christ in the Tomb). There are as well other scenes; showing King Diarmuid; horsemen; hunters and animals. Building of the so called Cathedral (Temple McDermot) in the centre of the abbey grounds startet in 909 by King Flann Sinna and Abbot Colm醤 mac Ailella. West door way has been restored. Famous is the Gothic style northern doorway with view from and to Shannon river; called Whispering Arch. In this biggest church of Clonmacnoise; lots of graves have been found. Most prominent is the grave of Rory O`Conor; the last High King of Ireland; who was buried here; in 1198; following his father Turlough O`Conor who had built on of the round towers; the O'Rourke's Tower; in 1124; with Gilla Christ Ua Maoileoin (O`Malone); abbot of Clonmacnoise.The monastery of Clonmacnoise; irish Cluain Mhic N骾s; "Meadow of the Sons of N髎"; or irish Cluain Muccu N骾s; "Meadow of the Pigs of N髎"; was founded in 544 or 548 AD by St. Ciar醤 ((c. 516 - c. 549 or 552) and seven following monks; who died soon after most probably caused by pestilentia. The monastery became famous for its scriptorium. here; The Book of the Dun Cow (German: Buch der dunkelfarbenen Kuh); the oldest writing in old irish language; was realized. In 1979; Pope John Paul II visited Clonmacnoise. From 9th to 12th century; the monastery was strongly tied with the kings of Meath. Lots of high kings of Tara and Connacht were buried here. From 10th to 16th century; the monastery was continously extended. Within 400 years; Viking