Ritual site — holy tree/bush in Youghalvillage

Situated in hillocky area on SE facing slope. This holy well is a natural spring which flows into an open pool. Though not marked on 6" OS 6-inch map a lane leads from the main track right up to the well. Maintained and still visited, the well is enclosed by hexagonal dry-stone walling (diam. c.1.3m; H c.1m) and covered by a flat slab of slate which has been partially cut to allow easy access to the water. Opening to SE and it is flanked on either side by walling terminating with boulders, with flag-stones flooring this entrance area. This walling continues to enclose the hillock for a further 2-3.5m on either side of the entrance. Several small wooden crosses, painted Marian blue, have been inserted on top of this wall and on the hillock surrounding the well, including one fixed to an adjacent ash tree with a small crucifix placed in centre. Rag bush in front of well and wooden altar to rear containing statue of Virgin and Child. In c.1840 the holy well was described as a place 'at which deseases area said to be cured and superstitous ceremonies performed' (O'Donovan c.1840, Unpublished OS Namebooks). Compiled by: Caimin O'Brien. Date of upload: 22 September 2008