St. Connells Well

On the SW of the mound surrounding the well is a small portable basin-stone (DG058-002002-) with a depression .23m in diameter and 0.09m deep. The well was described by Ó Muirgheasa in 1936 as 'St. Conall's Holy Well at Derryleacconnell, not far from Doochary, is still remembered by the pious people around there, and has stations performed at it' (Ó Muirgheasa 1936, 151). (Ó Muirgheasa No. 41) The above description was derived from the 'Archaeological Survey of County Donegal. A description of the field antiquities of the County from the Mesolithic Period to the 17th century.' Compiled by: Brian Lacey with Eamon Cody, Claire Cotter, Judy Cuppage, Noel Dunne, Vincent Hurley, Celie O'Rahilly, Paul Walsh and Seán Ó Nualláin (Lifford: Donegal County Council, 1983). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated. Compiled by Caimin O'Brien Date of upload/revision: 03 November 2011

St. Connells Well is associated with St. Conall, a lesser-known early Irish saint, and was historically visited for its supposed healing properties, particularly for skin ailments and general well-being. The presence of a basin-stone suggests it was used for ritual water collection or washing, a common feature at many early Christian holy wells in Ireland.