Why this matters
Linked to St. Anthony, the well was traditionally associated with cures for skin ailments and livestock diseases. Local folklore suggests that the well was once a site of pilgrimage, with visitors leaving small offerings and prayers for protection and healing.
What is recorded here
Located on a slight rise of natural rock outcrop in an area of undulating countryside with good views. Disused dried up holy well (1.55m x 0.65m) known locally as St Anthony's Well with stone built cover made up of a large overlapping slabs similar to a corbelled roof (H 1.05m) with entrance (Wth 0.6m) facing S towards the mass-rock. Mass rock (OF016-027001-) located beside the well which has several initials, an IHS and a date of 1706 carved on its surface (Davies 1942). Bullaun stone (OF016-027002-) located approx. 5m to the S of the holy well, according to local information this bullaun stone came from Rahan monastery (OF016-015001-) (Pers. Comm. Darryl Hooper).
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Offaly' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload: 23 May 2011
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