Historic graveyards
There are 54 historic graveyards within Fingal which form a significant element of the county’s heritage. Many are still in use. Some such as Lusk, Swords, St Douloughs and Grallagh are associated with saints and date from the earliest periods of Christianty. Others like Cloghran, Holmpatrick and Mulhuddart are medieval parish graveyards. Many contain church ruins, holy wells and interesting gravestones. These ancient graveyards were only enclosed in the 19th century and as such there is the potential for burials to be discovered beyond the present graveyard walls.
Fingal Historic Graveyards Project
In 2008 the Heritage Office commissioned the Fingal Historic Graveyards Project. The aim of the project was to provide and assessment of the historic graveyards and baseline data to inform their protection.
Protection of Historic Graveyards
Almost all of Fingal’s historic graveyards are also recorded archaeological monuments and are subject to legislative protection. It is tempting especially when graveyards have become overgrown or appear in need of repair to take matters into your own hands but even pulling ivy off a wall can have a serious detrimental impact. Schemes for the clearing and maintenance of graveyards should be fully planned and expert advice sought.
Care and Conservation of Graveyards
Guidance for the Care Conservation and Recording of Historic Graveyards
Irelands Historic Churches and Graveyards
Ruins - The Conservation and Repair of Masonary Ruins (2010)