This large and impressive site is dedicated to a local saint, St John of Mushera. Wedged into the side of Mushera mountain, emerging from the forestry and with spectacular views down into Millstreet and beyond, it is a remarkable, unexpected and windswept spot. Each time we have been here the weather has been interesting: thick, […]
Schools' Folklore Project
Three sisters, Two wells around Cullen
The area around Cullen in North Cork reveres three saintly sisters: St Lasair, St Laitairian and St Inghne Bhuidhe – the spellings of these names vary enormously! Who they were seems complicated. Some accounts refer to them as being from the north of England for the wonderfully named St Beirechert (also spelled in a multitude […]
A clutch of wells around Castlefreke
An exploration around the Castlefreke area today. The castle itself is a massive Gothic pile built by the Freke family in 1820, replacing a much earlier castle. The house was burnt down in 1910; later sold, its valuable interiors were gutted and the building left a ruin. It was purchased once again by the Freke […]
Well of the Cold Spring, Tobernanore, Sheep’s Head
Clearly signed from the road (look out for the Ancient monument symbol on the gate) this well lies in a magnificent position with views out over rich pasture towards Dunmanus Bay. The site feels remote and open, yet the well is hidden and tucked into the landscape. The first time I came here, it was […]
Blessed Well, Tobar Beannaithe, Sheep’s Head
This well is in such a wild and remote spot. Walking down from the Goat’s Path through boggy pasture, a ridged path is discernible, flagged by large stones. This takes you down through fields towards a green plateau. The landscape first has to be admired for it is breath-taking. The plateau is in fact part […]
Four very different wells around Timoleague
Today we headed out east on the trail of wells in the Timoleague area. Our first stop was a beautifully kept and still revered Lady’s Well, Tobar Mhuire, just outside the town. Lady’s Well,Tobar Mhuire, Timoleague This little well can be found right next to the GAA pitch on the road into Timoleague. It is […]