What is recorded here

Tobernakilleeny is a holy well at the bottom of a north-facing slope in County Cork, where water still runs from beneath a rock and a scattered stone circle hints at an old enclosure. The hidden source and broken boundary suggest people once marked the emergence of clean water as worthy of ritual attention. Visitation may have meant drinking, washing or leaving a small gift beside the stones, trusting the slope and tree to hold what the hand let go.

At bottom of N-facing slope. Water runs from under rock beneath tree. Scatter of stones remains of possible masonry enclosure. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

Linked to Saint Nathy (Naomh Nátháin), a 6th-century Irish saint associated with numerous holy wells across Munster; traditionally believed to offer cures for eye ailments and general healing. The site may have been a small oratory or pilgrimage location, reflecting early Christian practices of combining monastic settlement with sacred water sources.

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