Sheela na Gigs are stone carvings depicting a naked female exhibiting herself in an explicit and provocative way. These images are found throughout Ireland. Theories abound as to their meaning and dating, with a consensus almost being arrived at which agrees that they appear mostly on churches and castles built after the 12th century and are possibly a continuation of a much earlier pagan custom. There are many opinions as to what the figures represent and their raison d'etre. These opinions are as diverse as the shapes and styles of the Sheelas themselves and include Pagan Spirit, Mother Earth, Earth Goddess, Pagan Goddess, good luck symbols, fertility symbols, figures to celebrate womanhood etc. It is widely believed that they repel evil spirits.

Celtic Pagan Survival ; is by far and away this is definitely the most popular and widely held belief about the origin of sheelas. The figure is meant to represent a survival of pagan, usually Celtic beliefs which have been incorporated into the newcomer Christian church. There are a number of explanations given for how these figures came to be there. Disobedient artists/sculptors paying lip service to the old gods. Local populations insisting that their old goddess is included into the new church. The inclusion of a pagan idol from an older temple, perhaps as a way of nullifying its pagan power. Interestingly the pagan origin for the figures is the one most often referred to in church literature.

The Sheela na Gig was carved and placed on the outside of buildings such as castles and churches to attract evil spirits away from the castle and church doors and thus prevent the evil spirits from entering the buildings.

In medieval eyes, nakedness and sexuality were seen as evil and were appropriately represented by Sheelas. This reflects stories of Eve tempting Adam in the Garden of Paradise.

However, Sheelas have taken on a new meaning in today's world and now represent liberated women. Sheela na Gigs are seen through modern eyes as being 'defiant' rather than 'deviant'.

Sheela na Gig in County Galway
 

Merlin Park Castle - Galway City