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Toberavastia

Holy well

What is recorded here

Toberavastia is a disused holy well in County Cork where a small stream still escapes large flat stones beneath a low earthen bank. It sits on a north-facing grazing slope not far from Fanlobbus, an early ecclesiastical enclosure, suggesting the water once belonged to prayer rather than ordinary drink. The stones may have marked a place where people asked for healing, courage or mercy, while the church waited nearby with its own claims. Now the well gives water to grass and memory instead of cups.
In rough grazing on N-facing slope. Small stream springing from large flat stones, enclosed by low earthen bank. No longer in holy use. Fanlobbus early ecclesiastical enclosure (CO108-02701-) c. 260m to NE. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 1: West Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1992). 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 Saint Abhastach, Toberavastia is a holy well traditionally associated with cures for skin ailments and general well-being. The name derives from "Tobar Abhastach," reflecting the saint's connection to the site, though little specific folklore remains recorded.

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

What survives
Recorded monument

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