Sheela-na-Gig in Co. Longford

Sheela-na-Gig at the ruined medieval church of Rathcline

Photograph of a Sheela-na-Gig at the ruined medieval church of Rathclinescanned from a photograph in Teathbha Vol.2., No. 3

Sheela-na-Gig at the ruined medieval church of Rathcline

Photograph of a Sheela-na-Gig at the ruined medieval church of Rathclinescanned from a photograph in Teathbha Vol.2., No. 3

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Sheela-na-Gigs are stone carvings, generally relief carvings, of the female body, exhibiting and emphasising the genetalia. They are most frequently found in churches, church sites, castles and towerhouses.

There are two distinct types of Sheela-na-Gig. Those which pre-date the year 1200A.D. generally tend to be very grotesque and repulsive in face and form and very exhibitionist. The later medieval Sheelas from the 13th -17th centuries are less ghoulish.

A clear specimen of the late medieval Sheela-na-Gig

Article about Sheela-na-Gigs in County Longford

pdf of Article about Sheela-na-Gigs in County Longford taken from Teathbha Vol. 2., No. 3 by Sean Cahill

was discovered on the ruined medieval church of Rathcline in Co. Longford. It is situated on the west window of the building looking out over Lough Ree. It is carved in relief and is about 28cms in height. The lower abdomen is naked while the remainder of the trunk is clothed.

The true signification of the Sheela-na-Gig remains unclear. They may have been symbols of fertility or could have been carved on churches to warn the illiterate faithful against the dangers of lust. However, specimens have also been found high up on castle walls. The large number of Sheela-na-Gigs in existence would seem to indicate that they had an important function in the lives of our medieval ancestors.