2006:672 - Tobermaclugg, Lucan, Dublin

Test-trenching took place on 2 May 2006 in advance of the development of a proposed pumping station in the vicinity of a holy well. Nine trenches were excavated within the area to be occupied by the pumping station, as it is bounded by a stream and was classed as an area of archaeological potential during the initial desktop assessment. Nothing of archaeological significance was discovered within this area. Trench 10 was located in the south-west corner of the area and was opened in order to locate the extent of the holy well.
The well was comprised of a substantial capstone (1.2m by 1m) abutted by four steps that descend along the east side of the well to the south façade of the structure where the water would have been accessed. The steps measured c. 0.8m wide by 0.3m long and each rose to a height of c. 0.15m. It is probable that the steps continue downwards, as described in the SMR file. The structure was considerable, measuring 2m by 1.6m, although no associated archaeological features were discovered surrounding the well. Once disturbed, the spring emitted copious amounts of water and a small channel had to be dug to drain the trench. No dating evidence was discovered during the testing, but the well was obviously created to venerate the natural spring that flows into the stream.
During previous testing, the well was originally recorded by Georgina Scally, who located, and partially exposed, the structure (Excavations 2001, No. 475, 01E1152). The position of the well in 2001 was stated to be c. 0.4m beneath ground level. As the site of the holy well has been established, a 5m buffer has been installed between the remains and the proposed pumping station.