What is "nethercross"

Nethercross is a feudal title of nobility and one of the baronies of Ireland. Originally part of the Lordship of Meath, it was then constituted as part of the old county of Dublin. Today, it lies in the modern county of Fingal. The barony was created by Hugh de Lacy, Lord of Meath as his own feudal barony, held directly from himself in capite. His vassals were commonly called "De Lacy's Barons". The barony is named from the cross of the abbey said to have been founded by St. Cainnech in 560 A.D. The cross may today be seen in the old graveyard of the ecclesiastical parish of St Canice in Finglas. The town with the biggest population in the barony is Swords.