Why this matters
The holy well at Conwal is associated with Saint Cuan, a 7th-century Irish saint known for his ascetic practices and healing miracles. Traditionally, the well was visited for its curative properties, particularly for eye ailments and general healing, with rituals often performed on Saint Cuan's feast day.
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Conwal Graveyard, recently extended and still in use is the site of an early ecclesiastical settlement possibly as old as the 7th century (Gwynn and Hadcock 1970, 33). Within the graveyard (DG053-029008-) is a holy well (DG053-029002-) (Ó Muirgheasa No. 78) and the ruins of a church (DG053-029001-). The well was described by Ó Muirgheasa in 1936 as 'St. Catherine's Well beside Conwall Graveyard, a couple of miles west of Letterkenny. Tradition of cures there: stations, still performed. Sometimes called Tobar na Congbhala. The landlord once closed this well, but it burst forth again, it is said.' (Ó Muirgheasa 1936, 155). (Ó Muirgheasa No. 78)
The above description was derived from the 'Archaeological Survey of County Donegal. A description of the field antiquities of the County from the Mesolithic Period to the 17th century.' Compiled by: Brian Lacey with Eamon Cody, Claire Cotter, Judy Cuppage, Noel Dunne, Vincent Hurley, Celie O'Rahilly, Paul Walsh and Seán Ó Nualláin (Lifford: Donegal County Council, 1983). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated.
Compiled by Caimin O'Brien
Date of upload/revision: 03 November 2011
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