Discover Alone, back to main map

Indicated

Holy well

What is recorded here

Three fresh-water springs (DG004-055001/003-) defined by circles of stones on the muddy foreshore. Described by Ó Muirgheasa in 1936 as 'Cathal Dubh's three boiling wells at Strabreagy are three little bubbling springs on the Black Rock in Drumaville townland, on the left of the road from Carndonagh to Malin. At full tide they are covered, but a turus used to be made there. "Cathal Dubh" was a hermit, and his cell is still to be seen at Goorey, about two miles from Malin on the road to Lagg' (Ó Muirgheasa 1936, 158). (Ó Muirgheasa No. 93) 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 Cathal Dubh, the site is traditionally associated with healing properties, particularly for skin ailments. Local folklore describes the bubbling springs as having curative powers, with Ó Muirgheasa noting their effervescent nature in 1936.

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

What survives
Recorded monument

Places near here

Add to this placeAdd a picture Comment or add a tip

Explore 1,118,481 places