Folklore and traditions
Offerings and rag trees
Rags, coins, rosaries and other votive offerings left at holy wells and trees. 109 sites across 21 counties.
Illustrative image
Folklore on ErinSites is quoted from the Archaeological Survey of Ireland (or, when marked, from visitors). It records what people said or believed about a place; it is not presented as historical fact.
- Parknabinnia Wedge Tomb Megalithic tomb · Parknabinnia, Co. Clare
On a gentle SW-facing slope in rough pasture and exposed limestone pavement near the top of Roughan Hill, offering wide views from SE-SW-NW. Indicated as a circular feature and labelled ‘Carn’ on the first edition (1842) of the OS 6-inch map.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Quin Abbey Abbey or friary · Quin, Co. Clare
A rectangular cupboard (Wth 0.5m; H 0.33m) occupies the top of the back wall of the recess and there are modern votive offerings around the basin.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Brigid's Well Holy well · Ballysteen, Co. Clare
The holy well is still much venerated, as attested to by the many relics, coins, statues, rosary beads, notes and mass cards lining the passageway walls and lying about the well opening.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Altar Wedge Tomb Megalithic tomb · Altar, Co. Cork
A pit containing votive deposits of limpet, periwinkle shells and fish bones was found at the E end of the chamber, and a small spread of cremated human bone was uncovered inside the entrance area.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Gobnait's Well Holy well · Glebe (Muskerry West By., Ballyvourney Par.), Co. Cork
Votive offerings surround well and cups hang from a rack.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Olan's Well Holy well · Dromatimore, Co. Cork
Well enclosed by roughly circular stone-built structure with small opening facing E. Votive offerings around well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Catherine's Holy Well (Dublin) Holy well · St. Catherine'S Park, Co. Dublin
Tradition has it that the water from the larger well was drunk and the water from the smaller well was used to bathe sore eyes.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Colmcille's Well Holy well · Oldcourt, Co. Dublin
The water is traditionally thought to cure sore eyes, ears and throat.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Patrick's Well Holy well · , Co. Dublin
The waters were thought to cure sore eyes and inveterate ulcers.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Sorney's Well Holy well · Drumacoo, Co. Galway
Access is via seven steps at N. Modern votive offerings are visible and there is a local tradition of a pattern, performed on two consecutive Mondays and the intervening Thursday, at which cures for injuries, bleeding and minor disabilities are sought.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Johns Well - Tobar Eoin Holy well · Cill Mhuire (Tc An Mhín Aird), Co. Kerry
Rounds are made here on the 29th of August and a pattern was formerly held on the same day (Ó Danachair 1960, 76).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobar Bride Holy well · Brallistown Commons, Co. Kildare
According to Jackson (1979-80, 156) 'there was a famous pattern held at this spot over 150 years ago, but the pattern fell into disrepute from want of piety.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact
- Cantwell's Castle Castle · Sandfordscourt, Co. Kilkenny
Carrigan (ibid.) recounts how in 1649 this castle was garrisoned against the Parliamentarians but that, 'the officers being English, Welsh, and Scotch, sent some of their number to Cromwell, offering him possession of the castle', under terms which were…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Scoheen's Well Holy well · Freneystown, Co. Kilkenny
There are no votive offerings at the bottom of the well and there is no present tradition of a local pattern or any cures asscoiated with this well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobar na súl Holy well · Rathlogan, Co. Kilkenny
This well, as may be inferred from the name, was in great repute formerly for the cure of sore eyes, but now it is little frequented' (O'Flanagan ed. 1930, vol. 1, 156 (51)).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Ullard high cross High cross · Ullard, Co. Kilkenny
The church is dedicated to St Fiachra, who according to tradition founded it in the latter part of the 6th-century (Vigors 1893, 257).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Brigid's Well Holy well · Ballintubbert, Co. Laois
No evidence of any votive offerings in the vicinity of the well and no pattern is held at this well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Longory's Well Holy well · Kilgory, Co. Laois
A pattern day was formerly held here on 24th June (Comerford 1886, vol. 3, 197).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Ite's Well Holy well · Killeedy North, Co. Limerick
The following folklore was recorded from Raheenagh National School about St. Ita's Well; 'There is a holy well in the ground where her monastery was built and many people come and pray their on her feast day.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobernalt Well Holy well · Aghamore Near, Co. Sligo
A holly tree hung with votive offerings and rags stands on high ground to the NW of the holy well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Brigids Well Holy well · Killarecastle, Co. Westmeath
Votive offerings have been deposited at the feet of the statue standing inside this stone canopy.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady Well Holy well · Tintern, Co. Wexford
There is no record of veneration and there are no offering, but a St. Bridget’s Cross is inscribed in cement over the opening.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberinneenboy Holy well · Glensleade, Co. Clare
According to local tradition (Kirby 2021) leaving an offering at the well would cure warts.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Coole Upper Holy Well Holy well · Coole Upper, Co. Cork
Oval-shaped, clochán-type structure covers well; opening at S; concrete grotto on roof contains offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Inghean Bhuidhe's Well Holy well · Dromtarriff, Co. Cork
Tree 3m to W has coins inserted in trunk and rags tied to branches; Bowman (1934, 349) noted three trees with large mound of stones at base of one.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Waterhouse, Co. Cork
Trees on N and E sides adorned with rags.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Coolgreen, Co. Cork
Rounds are made on August 15th and all during May.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Ballycurrany West, Co. Cork
Well enclosed in stone walls; corbelled roof; recess contains votive offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Titeskin, Co. Cork
Nearby tree adorned with rags and rosary beads.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Mary's Well Holy well · Walshestown (Muskerry East By.), Co. Cork
According to local information, rounds made to cure toothaches, earaches and other "affectations of the head"; according to tradition a trout has been seen in N well (Mary's well) and an eel in S well (Sunday's well) (ibid.).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Benjamin's Well Holy well · Gortnagark (Duhallow By.), Co. Cork
Reeves (1858, 274) described the well overhung with an 'old thorn tree covered with rags'.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bernard's Well Holy well · Doonawanly, Co. Cork
Collapsing corrugated iron shelter to NNE holds pictures, votive offerings and cups; rags tied to tree and nearby bush; still in holy.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bridget's Well Holy well · Mountbridget, Co. Cork
Shallow depression, defined by stone walling on N side and by cliff face to W and S. Canopy of bushes overhead tied with rags; several small statues left beside well by pilgrims.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Decla's Well Holy well · Imphrick, Co. Cork
Votive offerings surround well and rags adorn over-hanging bush.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Mary's Well Holy well · Crosshaven, Co. Cork
According to O'Leary (1919, 84) '...as no votive offerings are to be seen, apparently "rounds" are no longer made'.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Lough Hill (Stranorlar Ed), Co. Donegal
A well dedicated to St. Brigid with contemporary votive offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady Well Holy well · Stephenstown, Co. Dublin
Rags were hung on the tree as offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Catherines Park Holy Well Holy well · St. Catherine'S Park, Co. Dublin
Tradition has it that the water from the larger well was drunk and the water from the smaller well was used to bathe sore eyes.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Brideswell Commons, Co. Dublin
Still visited, especially for the cure of sore eyes.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Rathcoole, Co. Dublin
Small religious objects left as offerings'.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Mary's Well Holy well · Tobertown, Co. Dublin
Folklore collected in 1934 from Balscadden National School recorded the following beliefs about St Mary's Well; 'Situated in centre of very ancient graveyard beside this school.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Abbey (Leitrim By.), Co. Galway
The structure was partially covered with ivy and a number of rags had been tied to this overgrowth on the E and S walls.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Our Lady's Well Holy well · Derrycrag, Co. Galway
Old rags and rosary beads hang on a nearby tree.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bridget's Well Holy well · Loughrea, Co. Galway
According to local information, the well was used as a cure for sore eyes and rags were tied to a hawthorn bush its E; the latter has since been removed.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bridget's Well Holy well · Timsallagh Or Spring Grove, Co. Galway
No votive offerings were visible but according to local information, the well was formerly used for ‘cures’.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Dima's Well Holy well · Killeenadeema East, Co. Galway
People would visit it especially in August and September and, according to tradition, the water of the well helped cure rheumatism.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - The Bullaun of the Four Beauties Holy well · Eochaill (Bar. Árainn), Co. Galway
Known locally as Bullán na Ceathrair Álainn, it consists of a natural basin in the rock delimited by a drystone wall, oval in plan (0.85m by 0.45m), opening towards N. Numerous modern offerings are visible.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobar Muire Holy well · Kingstown Glebe Or Ballymaconry, Co. Galway
Just above the seashore overlooking Corrán, a sheltered bay to W. Known locally as Tobar Muire, it consists of a small natural spring with a lintelled-over drystone surround opening towards W. A number of modern offerings are visible.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobar Muire Holy well · An Coillín, Co. Galway
Modern offerings are visible in it.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tober Murry Holy well · Dubhachta, Co. Galway
A number of modern offerings are in evidence.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobernaseachtinyean Holy well · Cleggan, Co. Galway
Known locally as Tobar Na Seacht nlníon, it consists of a small natural spring enclosed by a roughly square drystone wall (L/Wth 2m) with an entrance at NW. There is an alcove in S wall containing modern offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Well of the Seven Daughters Holy well · Aillebrack, Co. Galway
Recorded by O'Flaherty in 1684 as 'a well in memory of the seaven [sic] daughters' (Hardiman 1846, 109), it consists of a small spring delimited by a low rectangular grass-covered wall (2m by 1.8m) opening to N. Modern offerings are visible.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Kilflynn Church Ancient church · Ballyconnell, Co. Kerry
St. Flann is said to have bestowed on the well the power to cure blindness.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Kilsarkan Church Ancient church · Kilsarkan East, Co. Kerry
These are probably deposited as offerings having been used for rubbings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Dirtane, Co. Kerry
Rounds/Offerings: It is still visited, especially on the 8th of September when there are public devotions.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Macadaw's Well Holy well · Glenderry, Co. Kerry
Rounds/Offerings: According to local tradition, rounds at this well may be made by members of the Corridan family only, to whom the right of burial in the nearby church ruin (KE013-023001-) is also reserved.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Buonia's Well Holy well · Cill Buaine, Co. Kerry
It affords excellent views to St Finan’s Bay and the Skelligs at W. The site is associated with St Buonia (Beoanigh), who is locally reputed to have been a sister of St Patrick.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Moling's Well Holy well · Brosna West, Co. Kerry
The water from the well is said to cure eye complaints.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Duagh (Clanmaurice By.), Co. Kerry
Rounds/Offerings: The well is still visited, especially on the Saturday before May Day.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Cinn Aird Thiar (Tc Cinn Aird), Co. Kerry
Small objects are left as offerings; there usually are fresh flowers in small vases or jars.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Kilclogherane, Co. Kerry
Cooke (1906, 10) noted 'an old hawthorn-tree, surrounded by bushes, brambles and ferns' in the immediate vicinity of Tobermurry and a local person recalls that up to the 1960s pieces of black cloth, rosary beads and crosses, made from a nearby bush, hung…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobernasool Holy well · Glandahalin East, Co. Kerry
Rounds/Offerings: This well is still visited, especially on the Saturdays before May Day, Midsummer and Michaelmas.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberreendoney Holy well · Ballymanagh, Co. Kerry
The following folklore about this holy well was collected between 1934-8 from Cahersiveen School; 'Tobereendoney or the well of Sunday’s King is also called St Darerca’s Well and is situated in Ballymanagh.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Tully East, Co. Kildare
Ribbons and other votive offerings have been tied to the branches of a tree overhanging the well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Well of the Rags Holy well · Castle Eve, Co. Kilkenny
The OS Letters (1839) describe this holy well as, 'Tobar na nGiobog, i.e., the Well of the Rags, from the quantity of rags left there formerly and still by its votaries' (O'Flanagan 1930, vol. 2, 58 (19)).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Kieran's Well Holy well · Derryvorrigan, Co. Laois
The well was dry at time of inspection with no evidence of any votive offerings in the fill of the well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Patrick's Well Holy well · Miskaun Glebe, Co. Leitrim
The enclosure is described as a 'fort' on the 1835 edition of the OS 6-inch map and the perimeter is cut by a road bank at NE. There is a modern well, constructed of concrete and still in use, which replaces an earlier circular drystone structure (diam. 1m)…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bridget’s Well Holy well · Aghintober, Co. Leitrim
It has a sandy bottom with some water and there are two whitethorns there which are known to have been festooned with rags in the past but are bare now.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Mary's Well Holy well · Killarga, Co. Leitrim
This is a natural well in a rock cleft at the bottom of a low cliff (H 1.8m) which is surrounded by a stone wall, making a small rectangular enclosure (int. dims c. 3.5m x 3.5m) which contains statues and offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tober Patrick Holy well · Drumoghty More, Co. Leitrim
A tree at the well, probably the ash tree immediately to the S, served as a rag-tree in the 1930s, although there is no evidence of this in 2003.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Ballinvana, Co. Limerick
Rounds are still made: the water cures sore eyes.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Rathcahill East, Co. Limerick
According to local tradition parish church of Rathcahill (LI044-133---) was located across the road from the well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Ballylanders, Co. Limerick
A pattern is held on 15th August, the largest of its kind in the county, with parades, games and dances in addition to the devotions at the well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Thomastown (Coshlea By.), Co. Limerick
Rags and small religious objects are left as offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Ann's Well Holy well · Sunville Upper, Co. Limerick
No devotions now, but rounds were made up to about 1930.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bridget's Well Holy well · Cartown, Co. Limerick
A great many rags still hang at the well; small religious objects are left as offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bridget's Well Holy well · Kilfrush, Co. Limerick
The water cured eye ailments, and rags were left on the tree as offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Stonehall, Co. Limerick
To S steps lead upslope via a gravel pathway back and around well to N. Modern pipe drains well to feed cattle trough c. 4m to S. Bushes, with rags attached, to W. According to Ó Danachair (1955, 212) rounds made here often, especially on 1st Feb.; water said…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Templeathea West, Co. Limerick
On latter sit numerous cups; rags are tied to surrounding trees.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberfelabride Holy well · Capnagower, Co. Mayo
Westropp (1911a, 25, also 17) notes that although the well is dedicated to the feast of St Bridget, the pattern day was traditionally held on 15 August.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Bride's Well Holy well · Calgath, Co. Meath
The well is surrounded by a paved path (Wth c. 1.5m) and within an enclosure (diam c. 5m) defined by a hedge and a picket fence, and there are two young trees outside the enclosure, one with rags.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Dympna's Well Holy well · Kildalkey, Co. Meath
It is now a rectangular stone-lined well (int. dims 0.85m E-W; 0.7m N-S; D 0.5m) approached by three steps from the W. It is within a cobbled enclosure (int. diam. 3.2m) with some offering, which is defined by a masonry wall (Wth 0.4m; H 1.15m).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Anne's Well Holy well · Randalstown, Co. Meath
A rag tree with some old cloths attached to it was present at the well in 1973, while a trench excavated near the well produced a blue glass bead (ibid.).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Bridget's Well Holy well · Clonlyon Glebe, Co. Offaly
Located on low-lying poorly drained land with church (OF014-017----) and graveyard (OF014-016----) to N. Disused holy well now dried up with votive offerings attached to nearby tree and coins deposited at base of well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Saran's Well Holy well · Moystown Demesne, Co. Offaly
In 1942 it was recorded that the feastday of St Saran was not remembered locally, although there was a pattern held at Tisaran until the early years of the last century (ibid.).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberneeva Holy well · Castlearmstrong, Co. Offaly
Hazel and hawthorn tress now growing around the edge of the well with evidence of votive offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Bride's Well Holy well · Lisnanuran, Co. Roscommon
It has water and is the source of a stream that surfaces c. 10m to the NE and flows off to the N. The well is still venerated and has some offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Kilbegly Well Holy well · Kilbegly, Co. Roscommon
It is a circular well (int. diam. 0.7m x 0.8m; D 0.8m) defined by a drystone wall which is open to the SW with two steps leading into it and a holy bush (RO054-026002-) with rags adjacent.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bridget's Well Holy well · Cloonmurly, Co. Roscommon
Traditionally this well appeared when a notorious landlord, George Ormsby, attempted to cure an injured dog at Tobernagreghta well (RO040-016----) c. 65m to the W, from whence it moved in disgust to this location (O'Flanagan 1931, vol. 1, 53).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tober Caelainn Holy well · Moor, Co. Roscommon
Traditionally, when St Caolin plucked out her eyes to dissuade a suitor a well appeared at that location.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberaraght Holy well · Glennawoo, Co. Sligo
Rosary beads adorn surrounding bushes and trees and Mass is celebrated here on 15th August each year.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurro Holy well · Cooney, Co. Sligo
The well lay in a hollow between two bushes and the devotees made a circuit on their knees round the bushes, attaching to one or other of them, at the close of the exercise, a small strip of scrap of cloth, in token, probably, of willingness to make a more…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Coogulla, Co. Tipperary
There are no votive offerings around the well which was probably associated with a nearby Penal church.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Mullauns, Co. Tipperary
The holy well was the focus of a pattern on the feast of the Assumption on 15th August, the men visiting the well in the morning and the women in the evening.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Lattin West, Co. Tipperary
No votive offerings visible in well or around whitehtorn bush.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobergal Holy well · Derrygareen, Co. Tipperary
Folklore collected between 1937-8 from Lackamore National School recorded the following tradition about this well; 'Tradition has little to say on this Holy Well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Kilrossanty Wells Holy well · Kilrossanty, Co. Waterford
There is no evidence of veneration, but in the 1840s offerings were left at the W wall of the church (O'Flanagan 1929, 36-7).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady Well Holy well · Bunown, Co. Westmeath
Dried up holy well (int. diam. 1m; D 1m) known locally as 'Lady Well' enclosed by a drystone wall with entrance at W, no votive offerings visible.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bridget's Well Holy well · Cushinstown, Co. Westmeath
No visible sign of any votive offerings at the well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bigseach's Well Holy well · Ballynacroghy Or Gallowstown, Co. Westmeath
Holy well described by Bradley (1985, 110) as follows; 'The ground here is marshy and the well is marked by a wooden sign and thorn bushes on which two rags were tied at the time of our visit.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Pass Of Kilbride, Co. Westmeath
Disused well consisting of an oval-shaped dried up hollow (dims. 3.8m E-W; 3m N-S; D 0.7-1m) with old U-shaped water channel (top Wth 1.9m; base Wth 0.5m; D 0.3m; L 40m) running out of hollow at N. No evidence of any enclosing element around the well or of…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberbreedia Holy well · Kilbride, Co. Westmeath
No evidence of any votive offerings at the well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Eardownes Great, Co. Wexford
According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 it was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin and was part of the pilgrimage (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 299), and according to Mac Leighim (1920, 133-4), quoting an elderly resident, the pattern was held on the feast of the…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Agatha's Well Holy well · Shelbaggan, Co. Wexford
It is known locally to have a cure for warts, and offerings were present until c. 1960, but it is now disused.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Cavan's Well Holy well · Kilcavan (Retrenched), Co. Wexford
The well is dedicated to Saint Caomhán Santleathan of Ardcavan (WX038-006001-), and according to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was held on June 12th, the saint’s feastday (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 2, 87).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Mary's Well Holy well · Grahormack, Co. Wexford
There are no offerings at the well, and there is no record of a pattern, but it was probably connected with the parish church of Rosslare (WX048-006001-) c. 1.3km to the N, which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Bridget's Well Holy well · Ballymacahara, Co. Wicklow
It is still resorted to for the cure of pains in the limbs, bowels, etc., and the briars and thorns over it exhibit in tolerable abundance the raggy offerings of its votaries’ (O’Flanagan 1928, 248).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Rock Big, Co. Wicklow
Site of St. Patrick's Well (WI045-007----) 210m to the SE. The well has dried up since the quarry opened, and the site is now occupied by a Marian shrine (10/10/1954) and a hawthorn on which offerings are suspended in May.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Catherine's Well Holy well · Killadreenan, Co. Wicklow
The well had been frequented for the cure of many ailments, and offerings were left at the well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact