Holy well in Killavallig

In pasture, c. 35m S of early ecclesiastical enclosure (13881). No visible surface trace of well which according to local information, was filled in during reclamation in 1984. Bowman (1934, 43) noted that 'no resident knew that this was a holy well until 1932. Mr McAuliffe [landowner] had the well cleaned and surrounded with a concrete wall. During the cleaning and building operations a large quantity of broken cups and statues was found.' 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 an early Christian tradition, the well may have been associated with a local saint or pilgrimage practice, as indicated by its proximity to an early ecclesiastical enclosure. Though now filled in, it was reportedly used for healing purposes, reflecting a common feature of holy wells in Ireland.