Disert to feature on this week's edition of Ag Triall ar an Tobar on TG4

placeholder image — The Disert Community Group

St. Colmcille’s holy well and its Disert surroundings have seen a number of archaeological excavations over recent years

In this week’s episode of TG4 excellent series “Ag Triall ar an Tobar”, to be broadcast on Thursday night, we learn that there is plenty of research into holy wells but not many wells have been excavated, as has happened in Donegal.

In Sligo’s ATU there is an inspiring project on the go with archaeologist Dr. Fiona Beglane, who lives near Donegal town and local historian Helen Meehan into St. Colmcille’s holy well in Díseart (or Disert), at the foot of the Blue Stack mountains.

There they will focus on how community efforts can lead onto bigger projects.

The six-part documentary series presented by Manchán Magan dives into the myths and legends associated with Ireland’s Holy wells and asks what is it about these therapeutic landscapes that retain a presence in today’s world.

ABOVE: Dr Fiona Beglane with the TG4 series presenter Manchán Magan

In each episode Manchán uncovers holy wells that have been sites of worship and prayer for centuries and are still visited today for those seeking comfort and peace. Where have these rituals come from and who are the people that keep these traditions alive?

Last week Doon well in Donegal was featured and captivated many viewers as it was known known as the headquarters of the fairies. Róise Ní Bhaoill explored what it is about these locations that have such a magical draw on people in this country.

This week’s episode featuring Disert will be shown at 8pm on Thursday on TG4.