St. Soorneys Well

In dense thickets, c. 115m NW of Teampall Asurnaí (GA110-084001-). Known locally as Tobar Asurnaí, it consists of a water-filled granite bullaun, oval in plan (0.67m by 0.53m), embedded in the ground surface and flanked on E side by some stones. Immediately to NW are two thorn bushes, one of which is revered locally as the saint's bush (GA110-082----). Close by to ESE is a cross-inscribed pillar (GA110-082002-) possibly marking the 'reputed grave of the saint' mentioned by Robinson (1980). (O'Flanagan 1927a, Vol. 3, 370) 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

Dated to the Early Christian period, the bullaun stone at St. Soorneys Well was likely used for ritual purification or as a holy water font associated with a nearby chapel or monastic site. Local tradition may link it to Saint Asurnaí, reflecting the fusion of Christian and prehistoric sacred practices.