Church in Rathurd (clanwilliam By., Roxborough Ed)

Situated in undulating pasture, in the vicinity of St. Patrick's Well (LI013-0240011). Westropp (1904-5, 366) recorded the following details about Rathurd Church; 'An ancient parish merged into that of St. Nicholas. The king of Cashel claimed a fort here, ante a.d. 900, Rathardasuird ("Book of Rights"). Rathsyward and Carnarthy churches restored by Malchus, Prior of Athissell, to the bishop, 1253 (B.B.L., p. 101); Rathsyward church, between Donaghmore and Singland, 1418. The castle and land of Rathwerde, 1587 (C.S.P.L, p. 311); Rhashtree, 1615; Ratchurd (D. S.(A) 10), 1657. O'Donovan considers it to be the Ratharda and Rathardasuird, or Rathsuird, of the "Book of Rights," ante 902. Site - Probably near the Round Castle [LI013-023----]. St. Patrick's Well [LI013-024001-] alone remains'. The precise location of this church has not been identified. Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien Date of upload: 4 October 2018

Rathurd Church, situated near St. Patrick's Well, was an ancient parish church later merged into the parish of St. Nicholas; its exact date of construction is unknown, but it likely dates to the early medieval period. The church's dedication and architectural style are not specified, but its proximity to a holy well suggests possible ecclesiastical or pilgrimage significance in the local area.