Project launch of Westmeath holy wells survey

Archaeologist Tara O’Faoláin, of Abarta Heritage, will be presenting a free talk about the upcoming survey of the holy wells of Westmeath at Moate library on Thursday, May 28 (6pm).

There are over 70 known holy wells in Westmeath, and Westmeath County Council has commissioned heritage consultants, Abarta Heritage, to undertake a survey of holy wells in the county. The project will begin with a survey of 38 wells in the south of the county, focusing on townlands including and surrounding Athlone, Ballymore, Moate, Tang, Kilbeggan, Tyrrellspass, Loughnavalley, Castletown-Geoghegan, Rochfortbridge, Milltownpass, Kinnegad and Killucan.

A second phase survey of holy wells in north Westmeath will take place in 2027.

At the launch of the project, attendees will hear about the history and archaeology of Ireland’s holy wells, how they have been sacred places for millennia, and how many are connected to Ireland’s earliest saints.

They will discover some of the folklore connected to Westmeath’s holy wells, whose healing waters have helped many over the centuries and are still regarded as sacred places. The talk will introduce the project, the planned survey area, and attendees will have the opportunity to share any stories or locations of holy wells they might have in their area.

The project is an action of the Westmeath Strategic Heritage Plan, funded by the Heritage Council with support from Westmeath County Council. The evening at Moate library is a free event and all are welcome to attend.