What is recorded here

Friars Well is a small oval stone basin beside Tobar Éinne in County Galway, named for the brothers who may have prayed at its water. The drystone wall still holds its shape though part has collapsed, and three steps lead down to a bottom that was dry when last seen. It is the kind of place where faith was practical: a clean edge, a deep jar, a drink before the road.

Some 40m NE of Tobar Éinne (GA119-006001-). Named in OS Letters as 'Tobar na m-brathar' (O'Flanagan 1927a, Vol. 3, 347), it consists of an oval basin (1.55m by 1.1m) revetted by drystone walling, partially collapsed, and is accessible via three steps at ENE. It was dry at time of visit. (Westropp 1895, 263-4) 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 Eanna (Cill Éinne), the well is associated with healing traditions and may have been a site of pilgrimage. The name 'Tobar na m-brathar' ('Well of the Friars') suggests a historical connection to a religious order, possibly medieval Franciscan or Augustinian friars who maintained or used the site.

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