Leitrim to feature in this week's 'Ag Triall ar an Tobar'

'Ag Triall ar an Tobar', a new 6-part documentary series, drives into the myths and legends associated with Ireland's Holy wells, and is set to air on April 4 on TG4 at 8pm.

In each episode, the presenter, Manchán Magan, uncovers holy wells that have been sites of worship and prayer for centuries and are still visited today by those seeking comfort and peace

Ordnance Survey Ireland claimed there were as many as 3,000 holy wells in Ireland - more than in any other country.

This 6-part series is a new format that fuses exploring Christianity and Pagan customs with historical records and local knowledge to take us through some of Ireland's undiscovered sacred places.

Rossa Ó Snodaigh (BAC), St. Hugh's Sweathouse and holy well, Leitrim contribute to the series, alongside Oein deBhardún (Galway), St. Columcille's Well, Rathfarman, Dublin, Bernie Ní Stiobhard, Barna, Tobar Éanna, An Ghaillimh, and Gary Branigan, Chink's Well, Portane, Co. Atha Cliath/ Dublin.

Presenter Manchán Magan explores history to uncover the hidden secrets behind these rippled waters. He describes some of the customs that visitors to the well would enact, such as tying ribbons to nearby trees and circling the well clockwise three times.

Each episode delves into a theme, unveiling unique stories, rituals, and beliefs associated with a local holy well.

From tales of saints and fairies to ancient healing practices and modern-day pilgrimages, viewers will be transported into a world where spirituality, folklore, and nature intertwine. Manchán takes a deeper look at the enduring relevance of these sacred sites in today's society.

Holy wells in Ireland hold a unique role as symbols of Irish culture and a connection with the natural environment. These sacred wells pre-date the Christian era, usually dedicated to Saint names that still echo, like Bríd, Pádraig and Colmcille; there is clear evidence that they were originally pagan sites.

Manchán learns about the traditions the travelling community have with holy wells from Oein de Bhardún, while Bernie Ní Stiobhard tells us about the healing she finds from her holy well Tobar Éanna, Barna.

Gary Branigan again brings a nearly forgotten well in a cave in Portrane, North county Dublin, followed by Manchán meets an old friend, Rossa Ó Snodaigh, to hear about the connection between holy wells and sweathouses in Leitrim.