What is recorded here

St Macdara's day, 16th July, still draws people to the small natural hole on the south bank of Sruthán Síothnach. The stream runs remarkably straight between clean rock faces, guiding visitors through cutaway bog and scattered stones toward the seashore. Cairns and shelters dot the rocky land nearby, suggesting the well has marked human life and ritual for a long time.

On S bank of a small stream in rocky land and cutaway bog between the road and seashore. Known locally as Tobar Síothnach, it consists of a small natural hole with some fairly large stones scattered around it. Frequented on St Macdara's day, 16th July. The stream, Sruthán Síothnach, has a remarkably straight course between clean rock faces close by the well. There are a large number of cairns and shelters (GA063-016002-) in the vicinity. (Robinson 1985, 43; Mac Giollarnáth 1941, 12, 36; Killanin 1954, 102) 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

Linked to Saint Maíros (also known as Mairéad or Mary), the well is traditionally associated with cures for skin ailments and general healing. Local folklore suggests that the well's waters, known as Tobar Síothnach ("Well of the Fairies"), were once guarded by supernatural beings and that offerings or rituals were performed to ensure their blessing.

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.