Holy well in Loughros Glebe

A simple opening in the ground adjacent to a ruined cashel (DG036-021) is regarded as a holy well (Kinahan 1889, 281-2). It is located in rough pasture near the summit of Holywell Hill. The above description was derived from the 'Archaeological Survey of County Donegal. A description of the field antiquities of the County from the Mesolithic Period to the 17th century.' Compiled by: Brian Lacey with Eamon Cody, Claire Cotter, Judy Cuppage, Noel Dunne, Vincent Hurley, Celie O'Rahilly, Paul Walsh and Seán Ó Nualláin (Lifford: Donegal County Council, 1983). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated. Date of upload: 22 September 2008

Linked to an unidentified saint, the holy well at Holywell Hill was traditionally associated with healing rituals, particularly for ailments of the eyes and general well-being. The nearby ruined cashel suggests a possible early Christian or prehistoric sacred landscape.