St. Bridgets Well

In scrub-covered area, at base of W-facing slope into valley. Ovoid area (7m N-S; 9m E-W), containing well at centre, enclosed by wall (H 1.25m) with gateway on W side. Well opening (0.56m N-S; 1m E-W) covered by W-facing stone arch (H 0.67m; Wth 0.58m) with stone-built gabled statue niche overhead containing statue of St. Bridget. To S steps lead upslope via a gravel pathway back and around well to N. Modern pipe drains well to feed cattle trough c. 4m to S. Bushes, with rags attached, to W. According to Ó Danachair (1955, 212) rounds made here often, especially on 1st Feb.; water said to cure 'sore eyes and other ailments' (ibid.). See attached photo taken in 1954 by Caoimhín Ó Danachair, courtesy of and © National Folklore Collection, UCD. The Photographic Collection, F025.21.00208 accessible online at www.duchas.ie/en/cbeg/17001. See attached colour photographs courtesy of Amanda Clarke Compiled by: Denis Power Revised by: Caimin O'Brien Date of revised upload: 30 September 2020

Linked to St. Brigid of Kildare, the well is associated with healing and fertility traditions, particularly for women's health and the blessing of livestock. Local folklore suggests that making a clockwise circuit of the enclosure while reciting prayers enhances the well’s curative powers.