Gartan Ráth Cnó Holy Well

The early ecclesiastical site at Gartan is the reputed birthplace of Colmcille, the greatest of the Donegal saints (Gwynn and Hadcock 1970, 385). It presently consists of a complex of sites in and around a graveyard (DG044-017008-) enclosed by a modern stone wall. Within the graveyard are a number of grave markers and the remains of a structure known as the 'Abbey' (DG044-017001-). The remains of a second badly-preserved cross (DG044-017003-) stands about 20m S of the graveyard. A heap of loose stones lie against the S base of the cross. The stones are connected with a turas or pilgrimage performed at the site. To the SE of this cross is a holy well (DG044-017004-) surrounded by a modern concrete wall. Just SW of the graveyard is St. Columbkilles Chapel (DG044-017005-). The well was described by Ó Muirgheasa in 1936 as 'Gartan Holy Well. See Reeves' Adamnan, page lxviii. It is in Gartan, the birthplace of Colmcille, and near the graveyard. The turus is still made. A visit to Colmcille's natal stone also cures loneliness' (Ó Muirgheasa 1936, 153). (Ó Muirgheasa No. 61) 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: 02 November 2011

The Gartan Ráth Cnó Holy Well is associated with Saint Colmcille (Columba), who is traditionally believed to have been born nearby at Gartan. The site reflects the deep monastic and spiritual heritage of early Christian Ireland, linked to one of its most venerated saints.