Holy well in Rann Na Feirste — Report the wrong picture

What is recorded here

Storms may erase footpaths and swallow reefs, but they cannot touch the cliff face where the well sits. People have drunk from Tobar na Spainneach for generations, trusting its water to refresh the body and steady the nerve. The sea rages outside while the well remains quiet inside the rock, a small defiance of the storm.

A stone-lined holy well situated in a cliff face. Described by Ó Muirgheasa in 1936 as 'On the shore at Ranafest there is a well called " Tobar na Spainneach," locally reputed to be holy' (Ó Muirgheasa 1936, 152). (Ó Muirgheasa No. 52) 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. Compiled by Caimin O'Brien Date of upload/revision: 02 November 2011

Linked to Saint Spanna, the well is traditionally associated with healing and is known locally as Tobar na Spanneach. The site's holiness and coastal location suggest it may have been a place of pilgrimage or ritual, particularly for those seeking cures for ailments.

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