The tradition of these handcrafted crosses dates back hundreds of years, and we're very proud to be official stockists of Naomh Padraig Handcrafts.

The creative process behind these products are almost as fascinating as the history of the cross itself.
In June and July the raw material, Bulrush, is cut with a sickle on the banks of the River Shannon and various other lakes and rivers in the west of Ireland. The material is then left to dry out naturally indoors, and after a number of weeks it is ready to be shaped into a St. Bridgid's cross.

St. Bridgid was born in the mid-fifth century and was buried at Downpatrick beside St. Patrick. She built the first Irish Convent beside a giant oak tree, this place became known as The Church of the Oak (Cill Dara) or Kildare as it is known today.

St. Bridgid was the daughter of a Pagan Chieftain, and while her father lay dying in his bed, St. Bridgid sat by him in prayer and whiled away the time by weaving the frist St. Bridgid's cross from the rushes strewn about the floor.

The St. Bridgid's Cross is still made in Ireland today and placed in homes on her feast day, February 1st, the day on which she died in about 524 A.D.

It is believed that the cross protects the home from evil and want.

These beautiful crosses are handcrafted in Co. Roscommon and are a beautiful homage to Ireland and all of her traditions. Measuring approx 11'X 11'.

PLEASE NOTE: As these products are handcrafted from natural materials, no two crosses will be the same. We cannot guarantee the shade or exact size of the cross.