Will you drink from The Well of the Mad?
The Well of the Mad – If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, plan a visit to Tobar na nGealt in County Kerry. Local folklore says that the area is named after Saint Silver Hugh and has been used since ancient times as a place of healing and spiritual renewal.
The well is situated at the bottom of the valley of Gleann na nGealt. A crossing on a stream called Ath na Gealtán (fools crossing) can be found nearby, as well as a ring fort, both believed to date back to ancient times. It’s said that the waters of this well have a special power to cure madness.
Included in the folklore of Tobar na nGealt is a story of “mad people” coming to the valley for healing, drinking milk from a hollow in a Ballaun stone named locally as the Mad Stone which is near the well. Despite being centuries old, stories of people being cured after drinking the well’s water are still told today. One such story is that of Mary Maher from Limerick and also the King of France who was said to have lost his reason at the battle of Ventry Harbour but found relief after drinking from Tobar na nGealt.
When visitors come to Tobar na nGealt, it’s a common practice to hang clothing, medals, rosary beads and other personal items on the trees around the well. People also pray and drink the water from the well as part of their ritual. There is a sense of great peace in the valley that many find calming and therapeutic.
Although there is no specific day associated with Tobar na nGealt, it is said that if you drink the water and see a fish in the water, your ailments will be cured. This legend still stands strong today, drawing people from all corners of Ireland to experience its healing power. Tobar na nGealt is more than just a well; it’s a living testament to the power of faith, healing and ancient traditions.
Visit Tobar na nGealt and experience its special magic for yourself!
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