Holy Well

Immediately S of a children’s burial ground (GA107-058001-). This natural spring well is known locally as ‘Our Lady’s Well’ and is visited each May. It is defined by an oval drystone well chamber (1.1m E-W; 0.9m N-S; D 0.8m) around which lies a scatter of loose stones (Wth 0.9m), most likely field-clearance material. A small alcove built into the S sector of the well contained religious icons and money, and more were also scattered around the W sector. The well was dry on inspection and, according to local information, the water source had moved near the large tree just W of the well. A number of natural depressions in the nearby rock outcrop are known locally as ‘St Brendan’s knees’. Compiled by: Galway Archaeological Survey, UCG Date of upload: 28 March 2023

Linked to Marian devotion, the well is traditionally associated with prayers for fertility and the protection of children. It is visited annually in May, a time of seasonal renewal and pilgrimage to many holy wells in Ireland.