What is recorded here

Toberanoonan is a hidden holy well in County Cork, named for an infant or young child. It sits beside a road, tucked into a natural rise with overgrown stones and lintels, while a worn bullaun stone rests immediately to its east. The absence of votive offerings or rounding traditions suggests the site kept its purpose private, perhaps serving children, mothers, or forgotten neighbourhood prayers rather than public ceremony.

Not shown on 1842 OS 6-inch map. On E side of road, set into natural rise. Overgrown stone-lined well roofed with lintels. Name translated as 'Tober a Naoidheanain (well of the infant or young child)'. Hartnett (1989, 89) noted 'no votive offerings or tradition of rounds'. Bullaun stone (CO071-064002-) immediately to E of well. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 3: Mid Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1997). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009 Images provided by and copyright of Amanda Clarke 2016-2022 https://holywellscorkandkerry.com/

Linked to a tradition involving infants or young children, possibly as a site for healing or protection rituals. The name suggests a local folklore connection to child welfare, though specific saintly association is not recorded.

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