Holy well in Leitir Mealláin — Report the wrong picture

What is recorded here

Black Tongue Well hides among rocks above the tide at the southwest edge of Leitir Mealláin, its round pothole marked by a broad point on one side. Local custom holds that it should be walked nine times on Monday and nine times on Friday, a repeated circuit that turns an ordinary stone basin into a place of patience and attention. The well does not need to give up much of itself; it only requires that someone remember the shape of the commitment.

Among the rocks just above HWM at SW end of Leitir Mealláin. Known locally as Tobar an Tóin Dubh, it consists of a round pothole with part of the rim extending into a broad point on one side. According to local custom, it should be visited on a Monday and a Friday, making nine rounds each time (info. T. Robinson). Not visited. 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 Fillan, the well is traditionally associated with healing and is known as Tobar an Tóin Dubh, or the Well of the Black Head, possibly referring to a miraculous cure for skin ailments or baldness. Pilgrims once collected water here, and the site reflects a blend of early Christian and pre-Christian ritual practices.

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