Have you ever come across a holy well and wondered who else has walked on this path?
“Ag Triall ar an Tobar," the new TG4 series presented by Manchán Magan, fuses the exploration of Christianity and pagan customs with historical record and local knowledge to take us on a journey through some of Ireland’s undiscovered sacred places.
In each episode, Magan uncovers holy wells that have been sites of worship and prayer for centuries and are still visited today for those seeking comfort and peace. The series explores the question: Where have these rituals come from and who are the people that keep these traditions alive?
According to Ordnance Survey Ireland, there were as many as 3,000 holy wells in Ireland - more than in any other country in the world. These sacred sites hold a unique role as symbols of Irish culture and a connection with the natural environment.
Pre-dating the Christian era, these wells have been secret sites of worship and prayers for centuries and are still visited today by those who seek the miraculous cures offered by the waters. The holy wells are usually dedicated to saint names that still echo like Bríd, Pádraig, and Colmcille.
Magan treads through history to discover the wells' hidden secrets. He speaks of some of the customs that visitors to the well would enact, from tying ribbons to nearby trees to circling the well clockwise three times. He also lists all the potential ailments that might find relief and treatment from the waters of the holy well.
Each episode in the series 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. Magan takes a deeper look at the enduring relevance of these sacred sites in today’s society. He examines the reason why these places hold a special place in the hearts of the Irish people.
“In this series, we have only visited one percent of the holy wells in Ireland. And without the efforts of the community, there’s a chance these places would be gone. It’s amazing the work that goes on, collecting and preserving our culture. It’s vital that we record every detail about these wells so we have it to pass onto the next generation. It’s not a small amount of work at all…it’s a challenge, “ says Magan.
“Ag Triall ar an Tobar” will air on TG4 on Thursdays at 8 pm beginning Thursday, March 14.
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