What is recorded here

Tobermogua: an uncouth ancient ash tree stands one metre west of the holy well in County Clare, beside a medieval church and graveyard eighty metres to the southwest. Westropp called it a holy tree in the early 1900s, yet by 1997 no rags or offerings marked it and locals did not remember seeing any. The tree may have waited patiently through centuries of neglect, holding its ritual purpose inside its bark until people remembered how to ask it for help.

Associated with a holy well (CL009-059026-) named 'Tobermogua'. Referred to by Westropp (1900-1902, 133) as a ‘holy tree’, which he described as ‘an uncouth and ancient ash tree’ (ibid., 1897, 117). According to local information, the old tree c. 1m to the W of the well is regarded as a holy tree. On inspection in May 1997, no votive offerings or rags were tied to it and local people did not recall ever seeing any on it. A medieval church (CL009-059023-) and graveyard (CL009-059024-) lie c. 80m to the SW. Compiled by: Olive Alcock Date of upload: 30 March 2022

The holy tree or bush in Noughaval is associated with the nearby holy well Tobermogua and is traditionally linked to Saint Mogua, a lesser-known early Irish saint. The site was venerated for its healing properties, particularly for ailments of the eyes and skin, and the surrounding area retains traces of ancient ritual practices.

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