Toberbochilla

In the NE corner of pasture field, located in a natural depression of damp, rush-grown ground. There is a gently rise in ground level immediately to N. An ogham stone (MA-73-012----) is located on this elevation, 1.6m to N of the well. This holy well is not indicated on the 1838 OS 6-inch map, but is named ‘Tobernabochilla’ on the 1919 edition. It consists of a spring well within a squarish depression (c. 2m N–S; c. 1.4m E–W; D 0.8m) enclosed by a roughly-built, drystone wall (Wth c. 0.6m). The enclosing wall, which rises c. 0.3m above exterior ground level, is largely concealed by a covering of moss and sod. There appears to be a narrow gap on the S side to allow an outflow of water. A large, flat stone in the base of the well at the S side may have served as a step. Weed-covered water fills the base of the well to a depth of c. 0.3m. Three hawthorn bushes grow on the E side of the well. There is a N−S field wall 1m to E. Compiled by: Jane O’Shaughnessy Date of upload: 21 June 2017

Linked to Saint Bocchilla, Toberbochilla is traditionally associated with cures for skin ailments and general wellness. The presence of an ogham stone nearby suggests a long history of sacred or ritual significance in the area, possibly predating Christian tradition.