Why this matters
Linked to St Bernard, the well is traditionally associated with cures for skin ailments and general healing. Votive offerings and images left at the site suggest a long-standing tradition of pilgrimage and devotion, though specific folklore connected to the saint or location remains undocumented.
What is recorded here
To SE of Castle Curious (14947), at foot of sycamore tree. Oval depression with low wall to S; well opens to E to allow egress of water. Collapsing corrugated iron shelter to NNE holds pictures, votive offerings and cups; rags tied to tree and nearby bush; still in holy. According to Byrne (1902, 88), originally dedicated to St Branait, 'a sister to Cranith of Clenor and Nicholas of Monanimy'. Noted for curing limbs (O'Reilly 1987, 130) and pilgrims who were cured were expected to leave something at well; once a number of 'old fashioned boots were found in a hollow in the tree'; woman who paid rounds there failed to carry water from well as bottle broke on two occasions. (see also photograph in Grove White 1905-25, vol. 4, opp. 309)
The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 4: North Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2000). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research.
Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Images provided by and copyright of Amanda Clarke 2016-2022 https://holywellscorkandkerry.com/
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