What is recorded here

Toberleheen was a holy well in County Laois, marked on maps from 1841 to 1909 before the low-lying land swallowed its surface. It stopped flowing, not from neglect but perhaps because the region needed its water for living rather than praying. The absence transforms the memory: a hidden cup still waiting beneath poor soil, offering clarity only to those who stop treating mystery as a flaw.

Marked on the 1841 and 1909 eds OS 6-inch maps. Now dry. In low-lying poor land, no surface remains visible. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Laois' (Dublin Stationery Office, 1995) compiled by P. David Sweetman, Olive Alcock and Bernie Moran. In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload: 17 December 2007

Linked to Saint Leheen, the well was traditionally associated with cures for skin ailments and was visited for ritual washing. The site's name and purpose reflect a common Irish tradition of holy wells dedicated to early Christian saints, often used for healing and seasonal rituals.

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