St. Clavins Well

Well (c. 1.50m diam.) lined with drystone walling and cavered with large slab and enclosed by a concrete wall. Situated in low lying wet land. (ITA Survey 1942). Located on undulating land with bog to the SW and W and Kilclonfert Church (OF010-021002-) and castle (OF010-021002-) the N. Circular shaped well enclosed by stone built clochan with iron cross protruding from the top of the clochan along with other votive offerings including rosary beads etc. The well itself has three steps leading to its entrance, the water is very shallow with coins visible at the base of the well. The well is surrounded by a modern concrete wall. Pattern day is held on August the 15th (Davies 1942). (Comerford 1883, 305) 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

St. Clavins Well is associated with St. Cláibhin, a lesser-known early Irish saint, and is traditionally linked to cures for skin ailments and general healing. The site reflects a common pattern of holy wells dedicated to local saints, often featuring protective enclosures and ritual water use in Celtic Christian tradition.