Old Kirk Braddan

Until 1876, Braddan's parish church was Old Kirk Braddan. The site, which is dedicated to Saint Brendan or Braddan, has a long ecclesiastical history. Christian worship can be traced back to fourteen centuries. Around 400 AD, stones from the first Celtic Keeill (Chapel) were discovered.

Kirk Braddan Church, which was completed in 1876, is located close to the older Kirk Braddan Church. Both churches hold services, with the old church holding them less regularly and the modern church holding them more frequently. The primary Celtic and Scandinavian crosses from AD 800 to 1265 are presently housed in the historic Kirk Braddan Church, which was built in the 1700s. Around 600 AD, the first cross was made. In the parish, there are a total of nine runic crosses. Four of them are thought to be Scandinavian and contain similar inscriptions. The renowned ring chain pattern can be found on several crosses. This is the work of sculptor Gaut, son of Bjorn, who immigrated to the Isle of Man from Coll Island in the Hebrides. He was a master sculptor of his day (between 950 - 1040 AD). "Gaut made this and all in Mann," according to a crucifix carrying his designs. This demonstrates the breadth of his carving, which can be found on a number of early Celtic and later Scandinavian crosses.

Other relics seen in the old church are the sculptural crucifix nailed on the east gable, two-tower window ties (dated 1714) bearing Normanesque moldings, and interior fittings. the original of the church. Today Kirk Braddan Church is considered one of the most beautiful historical sites in Isle of Man.

Location: Douglas, Middle.