| Holy Wells
© Statue of St Bridget
The well itself commemorates the visit of St Bridget to the area, around
500AD. St Bridget was reputedly on her way to visit St Ita when night
fell. She took shelter in the chief's fort in Shanagarry. The following
morning she told him about God and Jesus Christ. Upon hearing what she
had to say, the chief converted to Christianity. Bridget moved some stones
from the ground, and a well sprang up where the stones had been. She used
the water from the well to baptise the chief. The Irish Folklore Commission,
1936, have placed an information board containing this story by the well.
St Bridget's Well is an artesian well. A life-size statue of the saint
has been placed beside the well. Rounds are made at the well, and a pattern
is held there annually on February 1st, St Bridget's Day. Rags were left
as offerings, although now there is a coin collection box for offerings.
The temperature of the well is constant. It is believed to heal sore eyes
and other ailments.
© St Bridget's Well
A millennium stone located within the grounds of the well, marks the
2000th Anniversary of Jesus Christ.
According to Danaher, St. David's Well is located at Castle Demesne,
in what was once the Earl of Devon's pleasure garden which was celebrated
for curing those possessed by the Fairies. There are no traditions surrounding
the well.
© Shrine at the well of St Bridget
A shrine in commemoration of the Marian Year 1987-1988 has been erected
in Newcastlewest.
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