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Tobernambraher

Holy well

What is recorded here

Tobernambraher is a disused holy well in County Cork, Ireland, where local tradition claims two monks were hanged nearby. The stone-built chamber sits half-hidden in a road bank, its arch still framing dark water though no one performs rounds there anymore. That sudden violence beside a place made for healing gives the quiet stones an edge, as if mercy and cruelty shared the same ground.
On W side of road, built into stone-faced bank. Stone-built well (H 1.5m; Wth 1m) with arched surround. Not in holy use. According to Bowman (1934, 190), this was a holy well at which 'Rounds have been discontinued long since. Tradition says that two monks were hanged near this well.' The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 4: North Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 2000). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009
Tobernambraher was historically associated with a holy well tradition, where "Rounds" (ritual processions or prayers) were once performed, though these have since ceased. The site is linked to local folklore surrounding healing practices, typical of many Irish holy wells dedicated to saints or ancient deities.

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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