You don’t have to travel too far in Ireland before you stumble across a peculiar roadside shrine, cross, sculpture or grotto. Ireland’s past has been greatly shaped and influenced by religious beliefs and these structures, which vary from the small to the large and elaborate, are reminders of such beliefs.

Many crosses to be found were often erected to commemorate family members and act as memorials. Of the shrines to be found on roadsides and otherwise, the vast majority will most likely be a Marian Shrine. These shrines will also most likely have been erected in 1954, a year which was dedicated by the Vatican as a Marian Year and was filled with celebration and devotion to Mary. Of the grotto’s, which are often found on Church grounds, the statues will often depict the crucifixion or particular saints which are often associated with the nearby building or locality.

Found right throughout Galway, not only are these shrines, crosses, grotto’s, sculptures etc… intriguing features, they are also important reminders of the religious past of Ireland. In addition, the beautifully skilled craftsmanship of stone, wood or metal work that has gone into many of these structures and sculptures is really something to admire!