About the Project

Holy wells are sites of heritage, cultural and religious interest and significance. At present, 79 holy wells are listed on the Record of Monuments and Places (RMP) for County Roscommon. The veneration of wells is a widespread and ancient tradition in Ireland, with some wells once being important venues of pre-Christian ritual activity. Certain holy wells are associated with early ecclesiastical sites in County Roscommon. Many wells are known for their healing powers, which are often attributed to the patron saint, with the water having curative powers and with some having associated pattern days when people visit to undertake prayer and pilgrimage.

The traditions, oral heritage and customs surrounding our holy wells is a very important aspect of our intangible cultural heritage. It is important to collect and collate the customs and traditions relating to our holy wells before this information before it is lost.

The Roscommon Holy Wells 2023/2024 carried out an audit of the heritage of holy wells in County Roscommon.  We are delighted to share the project findings in an exhibition, short film and story map as part of National Heritage Week 2024.

Customs and Cures: Roscommon’s Holy Wells

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wPBgK0pa6Q

https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/13cda4bb6edf4f3e959098a73c7a2f2d

Roscommon Holy Wells Project 2023/2024 was delivered by Tamlyn McHugh of Fadó Archaeology as an action of County Roscommon Heritage Plan, funded by the Heritage Council and Roscommon County Council.