Celtic Traditions: Cross and Language

A Celtic Cross is a cross with a ring surrounding the intersection of the two straight lines. It is a symbol for a blend of medieval Catholicism and ancient Celtic cultural traditions. The Celtic Cross was often carved from stone, but by the 15th century new examples ceased to be created. The Celtic Revival movement in the 19th century brought about a reinstatement of Celtic Crosses, particularly as cemetery monuments. Since the Celtic Revival, the ringed cross has become an emblem of Celtic identity, in addition to its more traditional Christian religious symbolism.

Irish Gaelic is a Celtic language still spoken in western portions of Ireland, particularly in County Galway (west central), County Donegal (northwest) and to a lesser extent County Kerry (southwest) in an small area of the Dingle Peninsula.

The Republic of Ireland is officially bilingual: Gaelic (first language) and English (second language).