St. Colmans Well

In SW and SE corners of a rectangular graveyard (GA009D014002-) c. 40m SW of the church (GA009D014001-) and close by a stream. The SW well, correctly Tobar Flannáin (GA009D014004-), consists of a natural spring, dry at time of visit, with a rectangular stone surround. This is centrally placed within a roofless, stone and mortar-built chamber, circular in plan (D 1.95m, H 2m), with a doorway at N and an alcove at E. Though noted by Mason (1950, 50-1), no offerings are now visible. The site of St Colman's Well (GA009D014005-), in SE corner of graveyard, is now marked only by a small unenclosed pool (E-W 0.4m) on the bank of the stream. (O'Flanagan 1927a, Vol. 1, 484; Hardiman 1846, 116) The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Galway Vol. I - West Galway'. Compiled by Paul Gosling (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1993). Date of upload: 05 August 2010

St. Colman's Well is associated with St. Colman of Inishbofin, a 7th-century Irish monk and hermit known for his ascetic practices and healing miracles. The well, also known as Tobar Flannáin, was traditionally visited for its supposed curative properties, particularly for skin ailments and general wellness, and was likely a site of pilgrimage and seasonal rituals.