Townland: Kilkieran, Kilnasoolagh
Description of Holy Well and Landscape Setting
This well once stood beneath a large ash tree in a large grazing field near the Rine River at the rear of the Dromoland Demesne. No trace of the well could be found in recent research visits.
Records from the 1930s in the National Folklore Collection suggest that the well may be gone.
‘.. about twenty feet away is a blessed well which is now nearly choked up.’
and
‘There was a well here and there is a tradition that it will not re-appear until a future age’
The well is largely forgotten except by the older generation living in the area.
Saint and Feast Day Associated with Holy Well
Saint Kieran’s feast-day is 9th September. No rituals or traditions remain at the site to celebrate the day.
Natural Heritage around the Holy Well
The well is indicated as being close to the river. Irises grow in the area when in season. Unusually, the river bank is free of excessive foliage, perhaps due to land management. In the area of the well site was a large sheltering ash tree which has been knocked over by winter storms.
Heritage Attractions Nearby
The well stands in the extensive Dromoland Castle Estate which features a luxury hotel and golf course. Newmarket-on-Fergus Village and the Late Bronze Age fort of Mooghaun are within five kilometres of the site.
Additional Information
The well at Kilkieran was one of several springs associated with Saint Kieran in County Clare. It is named after Saint Ciarán of Clonmacnoise, one of the principal saints (‘apostles’) of Ireland.
Discover More…
National Folklore Collection, Schools Collection 1930s
Record of Monuments and Places Number
RMP-CL042-070
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