Bullaun stone in Brittas (talbotstown Upper By.)

Situated beside a small stream in a boulder-strewn, marshy area. Large earthfast granite boulder with four basins (diams. 0.27-0.3m; D 0.1-0.12m); three form line on the E side and the fourth is opposite to the W. A possible fifth basin at the E side is entirely covered by peat. Known locally as the hand print of St Lawrence O'Toole. On the most recent field visit (2012) this bullaun was found to be completely submerged in water. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Wicklow' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Revised by: Mary Tunney Date of revision: 21 November 2012

Likely dating to the Early Christian or earlier prehistoric period, bullaun stones were often used for ritual purposes, such as the preparation of holy water or as sites of spiritual significance. Their basin-like hollows may also be associated with local folklore, including connections to Saint Patrick or other early Christian traditions.