Standing stone in Rathlihen

No evidence of any standing stone beside the holy well (OF024-040001-) (Shaw Rev. 1971, 71-2). Described by Rev. Shaw as 'At the entrance to the well is a standing stone with a hole in it, known as a 'swearing stone'. In ancient times, contracts were made binding by the two people concerned joining hands through the hole and thereby invoking a curse on themselves it they broke their word - a custom which is said to be of pagan origin. This stone came originally from Luganiska' (Shaw Rev. 1971, 72). 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

Likely dating to the early Christian or medieval period, the standing stone with a hole is associated with the nearby holy well and may have been used for ritual oaths or pilgrimages. The term 'swearing stone' suggests a tradition of making vows or promises at sacred sites.