Ritual site - holy well

The National Monuments Service's description

St. Columbkille's well is a modernised shrine at the summit of the Mamore Gap. Described by Ó Muirgheasa in 1936 as 'The Holy Well in the Gap of Mamore, near Clonmany, is said to have been dedicated to St. Aigne, from whom Desert Aigne is called. The turus is made on the 15th August. Pilgrims go around seven cairns on their bare feet, and finish up at the well. It is known as Turus a' Mhaidhm Moir. Tobar a' Mhaidhm Moir is referred to in Maghtochairs Inishowen at page 84 as follows :-" Near the extremity of the gap is a Holy Well, where the country people hold a station on the 15h August. Tradition says that a saint of old retired to this mountain fastness to meditate on the great Creator and supplicate His mercy and protection; and surely no more suitable spot for such a purpose could be found"' (Ó Muirgheasa 1936, 157). (Ó Muirgheasa No. 90)

The above description was derived from the 'Archaeological Survey of County Donegal. A description of the field antiquities of the County from the Mesolithic Period to the 17th century.' Compiled by: Brian Lacey with Eamon Cody, Claire Cotter, Judy Cuppage, Noel Dunne, Vincent Hurley, Celie O'Rahilly, Paul Walsh and Seán Ó Nualláin (Lifford: Donegal County Council, 1983). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated.

Compiled by Caimin O'Brien

Date of upload/revision: 02 November 2011