What is recorded here

St. Falaens Wells marks a small rectangular stone structure in County Galway, though older maps point to twin springs now vanished. The name drifted across paper before it anchored to stone, suggesting human memory shifted the holy water east or west depending on who drew the line. What remains is a quiet box of rock beside grass, waiting for the missing well to reappear in rain or dream.

This record was created on the basis of the name ‘St. Fallan’s Wells’, which is depicted on the 1933 edition of the OS 6-inch map to the W of a small rectangular structure. On the 1838 edition of the map, the name ‘St. Faelan’s Wells’ is shown c. 40m further to the SE, to the E of two spring wells, c. 15m apart. The rectangular structure shown on the 1933 map is also depicted but is unnamed. It is possible that the name was incorrectly placed on the earlier map. On inspection in August 1984, only one well (GA097-091001-), the rectangular structure, was visible and there was no visible trace of a second well. Compiled by: Galway Archaeological Survey, UCG and Olive Alcock Date of upload: 28 March 2023

St. Falaens (or St. Fallan) is associated with several holy wells in Ireland, often linked to cures for skin ailments and general healing. The name appears in early maps, suggesting a long-standing local tradition of pilgrimage and devotion.

This remains an important historical record, but the official description says the monument is no longer visible or has been destroyed. The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.