Holy well in Ballykenly

In low-lying marsh. Circular, stone-lined well (diam. 0.6m; D 0.5m) containing plastic barrel. Landowner uncovered well recently, having been told of its location by his father; locally called 'Tobairínmára' and known for all sorts of cures, especially of eye ailments. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 4: North Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2000). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

Linked to Saint Máire, the well, known as 'Tobairínmára', is traditionally associated with healing and is believed to have curative properties, particularly for skin ailments and female complaints. The name suggests a connection to Mary, and such wells were often sites of pilgrimage and ritual washing in pre-modern times.