Holy Well

A holy well is indicated at SW, immediately outside the wall of the cashel (KE068-022001-) named 'Cathair Craobh Dearg' and known locally as 'The City'. Only a shallow depression is now evident at this location. The holy well was one of the stations for the 'rounds' which were traditionally made here on 1st May, the start of the festival of Bealtaine. According to local information, this well was closed up c. 1950 when another well (KE068-022008-) was opened outside the cashel, at ENE. See attached colour photographs courtesy of Amanda Clarke. Compiled by: Elizabeth Byrne, Ursula Egan and Sheila Ronan, Archaeological Survey Unit, University College, Cork. Date of upload: 31 January 2011

The Holy Well at Gortnagane is associated with local traditions of healing, though specific saints or cures linked to the site are not recorded. It is situated near an ancient cashel, suggesting a long-standing spiritual or ritual significance in the area.