What is recorded here

Tobar Muire in Roisín Na Mainiach is a small spring feeding a rounded pothole at the foot of an altar-like rock, with a lifesize Virgin statue erected above it in 1944. Local tradition holds that the Virgin appeared there during Famine times, turning a quiet coastal seam into a place of desperation, witness and hope. The neat plot, concrete edge and road-side setting suggest people kept returning, pouring water, lighting candles or simply sitting with the sea inlet nearby.

On W side of a byroad close to a sea inlet called Loch na Leannach. Known locally as Tobar Muire, it consists of a small natural spring feeding into a natural rounded pothole (D c. 0.3m) at the foot of a tiny altar-like rock outcrop. Some concrete is in evidence around the pothole and a lifesize statue of the Virgin, erected in 1944, stands over it. The well and statue are at S end of a small plot with neat paths. Mac Giollarnáth (1941, 36-7) gives the legend of the Virgin's appearance here in Famine times. (Robinson 1985, 47-8) The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Galway Vol. I - West Galway'. Compiled by Paul Gosling (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1993). Date of upload: 05 August 2010

Linked to Saint Mary (Muire), the well is traditionally associated with healing and protection, particularly for women’s ailments and safe childbirth. Locally, it was once visited with offerings of coins and prayers, reflecting a blend of Christian devotion and older Celtic water cult traditions.

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