What is recorded here

Holy wells are ritual sites where people once washed, prayed or marked the body before leaving. That is all the facts still hold. The well may have hidden beside the church path, accepting water from rain and returning clarity to tired hands. It may have vanished under grass, bricks or forgotten fields. The function remains clear even when the hole is lost.

Unlocated holy well near the church of Killoughy (Shaw Rev. 1971, 53-4). The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Offaly' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 23 May 2011

Linked to Saint Killoughy, the well is traditionally associated with cures for skin ailments and was once visited by the faithful who recited prayers while drawing water. Local tradition holds that the saint founded a monastery in the area, and the site retains elements of pre-Christian ritual significance.

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.