What is recorded here

Toberbochilla is a holy well in County Mayo, Ireland, hidden beneath moss and sod in a damp, rush-grown depression. An ogham stone stands sixteen metres north, marking the edge of a place where water has seeped through ancient rock since before human memory. The well may have served travellers, herders or seekers of clarity, its narrow southern gap releasing a thin stream into the field. What is certain is that the land still holds the shape of the water, and the water still moves.

In the NE corner of pasture field, located in a natural depression of damp, rush-grown ground. There is a gently rise in ground level immediately to N. An ogham stone (MA-73-012----) is located on this elevation, 1.6m to N of the well. This holy well is not indicated on the 1838 OS 6-inch map, but is named ‘Tobernabochilla’ on the 1919 edition. It consists of a spring well within a squarish depression (c. 2m N–S; c. 1.4m E–W; D 0.8m) enclosed by a roughly-built, drystone wall (Wth c. 0.6m). The enclosing wall, which rises c. 0.3m above exterior ground level, is largely concealed by a covering of moss and sod. There appears to be a narrow gap on the S side to allow an outflow of water. A large, flat stone in the base of the well at the S side may have served as a step. Weed-covered water fills the base of the well to a depth of c. 0.3m. Three hawthorn bushes grow on the E side of the well. There is a N−S field wall 1m to E. Compiled by: Jane O’Shaughnessy Date of upload: 21 June 2017

Linked to Saint Bocchilla, Toberbochilla is traditionally associated with cures for skin ailments and general wellness. The presence of an ogham stone nearby suggests a long history of sacred or ritual significance in the area, possibly predating Christian tradition.

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