County Antrim, is home to numerous holy wells, many of which are steeped in pre-Christian and early Christian traditions, often associated with local saints and curative powers. These wells, frequently tied to ancient rituals and community gatherings, are less documented than those elsewhere, with only about 187 recorded in the NI Sites and Monuments Record.Saint Olcan’s Well, Cranfield: Pattern day: Traditionally between May Eve and June 29 (Saint Olcan’s Day), with Mass celebrated on the Sunday closest to June 29. Located near Churchtown Point by Lough Neagh, this well is dedicated to Saint Olcan, a contemporary of Saint Patrick linked to the Dál Riata. Pilgrims performed “rounds” over three consecutive days, involving prayers at a ruined church, seven circumambulations of the church, and seven around the well, counted with small stones. The well was believed to aid childbirth and protect against drowning, with “amber pebbles” (gypsum crystals) used for cures and tied rags left to decay for healing.
- Gloonan Stone, Cushendun: Pattern day: Not explicitly documented, but likely tied to Saint Patrick’s feast day (March 17) or local summer gatherings. A bullaun stone opposite Saint Patrick’s Church in Cushendun, featuring two water-retaining indentations, one a circular bowl. Named from “gluin” (knee), it’s linked to Saint Patrick, with legends claiming he knelt to pray or drink here, creating the depressions. Pilgrims aligned their knees on the stone before praying, a common practice at holy wells. The site’s wooden railings preserve its sacred status.
- Holy Well, Holywell Townland, Antrim Town: Pattern day: Unknown, likely tied to local traditions or lost to history. Situated on a ridge overlooking Antrim town and Lough Neagh, this mineral spring is rich in iron and surrounded by Bronze Age sites like souterrains and ring barrows. A notable stone at the well, with iron veins and possible man-made markings, glitters with chrome-like crystals. Its remote setting and archaeological context make it a hidden gem of spiritual and historical significance.
- Tobar na Súl, Ballintoy: Pattern day: Not documented, but possibly linked to summer feast days like Lughnasa (August 1). Known as the “Eye Well,” this coastal well near Ballintoy was famed for curing eye ailments. Its proximity to the sea and association with specific healing powers reflect the pre-Christian and Christian blend typical of holy wells. Pilgrims likely left votive offerings, such as rags or coins, at the site, though it’s less visited today.
- Saint Patrick’s Well, Glenariff: Pattern day: Likely March 17 (Saint Patrick’s Day) or summer months, though specific records are scarce. Located in the scenic Glenariff Forest Park, this well is attributed to Saint Patrick, who is said to have blessed it during his missionary work. Its waters were historically used for baptisms and believed to have curative properties, particularly for skin ailments. The well’s tranquil forest setting adds to its spiritual allure, though it’s less known than nearby tourist sites.
- Cranfield Stones at Saint Olcan’s Well: Pattern day: May Eve to June 29, with Midsummer (June 24) being a key day for collecting curative stones. Adjacent to Saint Olcan’s Well, these stones, known as “Cranfield Pebbles,” were collected during rituals where pilgrims emptied the well on May Eve to gather transparent gypsum crystals believed to “grow” overnight. Used to protect against drowning and fire, the stones were also placed in drinks for cures. The well’s rituals included circumambulating a nearby “St. Olcan’s Bed” stone.
- Tobar na nGealt, Near Bushmills: Pattern day: Unknown, possibly linked to local saint’s days or summer festivals. Known as the “Well of the Insane,” this well near Bushmills was believed to cure mental illnesses. Its name reflects the specialized healing powers attributed to many Irish holy wells. Pilgrims likely performed rounds and left rags on nearby trees, following the traditional belief that ailments would fade as the rags decayed. The well’s obscurity adds to its mystique.
- Saint Brigid’s Well, Ballycastle: Pattern day: February 1 (Saint Brigid’s Day), though active observance may have waned. Dedicated to Saint Brigid, this well near Ballycastle is set in a quiet, wooded area, often adorned with small offerings like ribbons or rosaries. Its waters were historically used for healing ailments like headaches or rheumatism, reflecting Brigid’s association with healing and fertility. The well’s secluded location makes it a peaceful spot for reflection.
- Tobar na Plaighe, Near Lisburn: Pattern day: Not well-documented, possibly tied to local plague-related rituals. Known as the “Well of the Plague,” this well near Lisburn was believed to offer protection or cures during times of disease. Its name suggests a historical connection to community survival during epidemics, with pilgrims likely leaving votive offerings. The well’s rural setting keeps it off the main tourist trail.Saint Colman’s Well, Near Carrickfergus: Pattern day: Unknown, possibly June 7 (Saint Colman’s Day) or summer gatherings. This well, dedicated to Saint Colman, a lesser-known Irish saint, is located in a quiet area near Carrickfergus. Its waters were believed to aid in healing wounds or sprains, with pilgrims performing traditional rounds and leaving cloths tied to nearby trees. The well’s obscurity and historical significance make it a hidden gem.
- Holy Well, Islandmagee: Pattern day: Not recorded, likely tied to local traditions or lost to history. Found on the rugged Islandmagee peninsula, this well is associated with early Christian practices and possibly pre-Christian rituals. Its coastal location and reputed curative powers for general ailments draw occasional local visitors, but it remains largely unknown to tourists. The surrounding cliffs add to its dramatic setting.
- Tobar na Baiste, Near Larne: Pattern day: Unknown, possibly linked to Saint John the Baptist’s Day (June 24). Known as the “Well of Baptism,” this well near Larne is tied to early Christian baptisms, possibly blessed by a local saint. Its waters were used for spiritual purification and healing, particularly for children’s ailments. The well’s quiet, rural location and lack of signage make it a true hidden treasure.
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