Wells of County Sligo
St Attracta's Well
St Attracta’s Well is in Glennawoo.
The spring well is c. 1.5m below ground level with stone steps leading down to it, revetted and surrounded by a large D-shaped cairn of stones. There is a cross, depicted in white marble, above the well. (Source Archaeological Survey of Ireland). Scenic setting close to a farm house. The well is enclosed within a small field surrounded by a stone wall. Very well cared for, grass is kept low and some planters are set up near the well. A cup is present for drinking the water.
Formerly pilgrimage to the well took place on the last Sunday of July until August 15th. Mass is now celebrated at the well on August 15th every year.
A small number of rosary beads and rags have been left on a nearby hedge.
St Colmcille's Well
St Colmcille's Well in Doonierin is situated in sandflats along the shore at Doonierin in Drumcliffe Bay is St Colmcille’s Well. This miraculous well springs up from the seabed and is enclosed by a low stone wall with a small gap to allow access to the emerging spring water. The seaweed covered well is only visible and accessible during low tide. The only clue that it is there during high tide is a stick that protrudes from the sea to indicate its location.
Drinking the well water is said to cure arthritis and some claims that it can even cure cancer.
June 9th is St Colmcilles Feast Day. Rounds of the well are performed barefoot and the spring water drank and also collected in vessels for use throughout the year. Pilgrims proceed to a second well dedicated to St. Colmcill in the nearby townland of Kintogher.