This is the east face of the cross. It is intricately carved; decorated with swirls of branches and leaves, serpents and human figures, including the Virgin and Child. The round, halo-like carving is a feature of Celtic crosses.

Celtic and Anglian Christianity left many carved crosses as traces of their early presence in the landscape. The finest monument of Anglian Christianity is the 8th century cross at Ruthwell, Dumfries-shire.

Iona had very special associations for Celtic and later Christianity. It was the 6th century landing place of St Columba, who brought the religion to Scotland.