Toberlanniv, Tobar Leanbh, Cahercalla

Townland: Cahercalla/Toonagh, Quin

Description of Holy Well and Landscape Setting

The area where the well is said to be located is a dip or depression, on the bank of the river on the west side of Hell River Bridge. The site is beside a working farm with cattle in the vicinity. There was no evidence of the well site to be seen on the day of the research visit. The area is covered in brambles. The photograph provided shows the general area inside the hedge where the well is said to have stood.

Saint and Feast Day Associated with Holy Well

The name of this well would indicate that it may have been a health well. Toberlanniv or Tobar Leanbh means ‘The Child’s Well’, suggesting it was once associated with helping children. Older residents of the townland do not remember hearing about a well at this site.

Natural Heritage around the Holy Well

The area around the well is not tended and is mostly overgrown scrub. No sign of a spring or a holy well could be identified.

Heritage Attractions Nearby

Quin village is roughly 3-4 kilometres southwest of the well site. A well-preserved Franciscan Abbey built on the ruins of an Anglo-Norman castle, and Saint Finghin’s Church can both be seen at the village.

Across the road from the farm where the well site is located is the Magh Adhair Medieval Mound, used for hundreds of years to inaugurate Dalcassian O’Brien kings under the watchful eye of the local McNamara Sept.

Discover More…

Clare County Library

Record of Monuments and Places Number

RMP-CL034-09506