Doon well and Doon Rock

Exploring Doon Well, Doon Rock, and the Mass Rock: A Journey through the Sacred Sites of Donegal

Donegal is home to many awe-inspiring places, but few are as powerful and revered as Doon Well. This sacred site is steeped in history, legend and mysticism and has become a pilgrimage destination for people seeking blessings and healing. So let's explore the fascinating story and significance of Doon Well.

The Holy Well of Doon

Doon Well is located in a serene area near a farmhouse. The Well is enclosed in a small rectangular structure with wooden doors and a large flat flagstone roof. Two rag trees stand beside the Well, covered in a wide array of offerings left by pilgrims seeking blessings and healing. These offerings include religious medals, hair ties, rosary beads, statues and scapulars. While the trees are not the source of blessings or healing, the strips of cloth or rags tied to them symbolize the belief that prayers will still be effective.

The Legend of Doon Well

Doon Well's origins are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have become a holy well in the 15th century. The Well's transformation into a sacred site is attributed to a man called Lector O'Friel. Lector was renowned for his gift of healing, and people came from far and wide seeking his help.

As Lector grew old and his death approached, the people feared losing such a holy man. Upon hearing their lament, Lector blessed the Well and told them that those who drank or applied its water would benefit from his prayers of intercession. He declared, "When I die, my powers will live on after me."

Doon well Prayors of Station

"Repeat Our Father and Hail Mary five times

And apostles creed for your intention

Repeat same for each bottle of water

Our Father and Hail Mary for Father O'Friel who found it

Our Father and Hail Mary for Father Gallagher who blessed it

Our Father and Hail Mary for the person who put the shelter around it

N.B These prayers must be recited with bared feet." 

Doon Rock: A Historical and Scenic Gem in Donegal

Following the right path when you face the Well, you will find Doon Rock, or Carraig an Dúin in Irish, a famous landmark in County Donegal, Ireland. This rock formation is only 120 meters above the surrounding landscape, but the views from the top are truly breathtaking. Walking up to the top can be challenging, but it's well worth the effort for the stunning panoramic vistas that await.

Back in time

The Rock of Doon has significant historical and cultural importance in Ireland. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area around the rock was an important site dating back to the Bronze Age, around 1500 BCE. However, the rock's most notable association is with the O'Donnell (Uí Dhomhnaill) kingdom, Tír Chonaill, in Donegal.

The O'Donnell clan, whose name means "mighty" in Irish, were one of the most powerful families in Ireland, and the Rock of Doon was a significant site for them. The first recorded O'Donnell inauguration at the rock was in 1200 CE, and the final king to be crowned there was Rory Ó Donnell in 1603. Throughout the centuries, the O'Donnells were mentioned in the Annals of the Four Masters more than 300 times, cementing their place in Irish history.

"Soon from the North shall Eire be united

—all men and new books announce this in assemblies.

Soon shall she and the nobles unite

a king of the Gaoidheal-blood to fresh-soaked Banbha. Help is at hand for the Plain of Té's Midhe

—a grave prophecy wherewith all agree;

all men summon him to the Field of Gáireach,

all prophets have spoken of our Aodh by name.

From the hills of the Finn to fair-branched Cliú

the Gaoidhil as every other stock shall gather round him;

help from the North shall be near them

and many shall be the fight about the Bóinn

with its bright swans."

"Ode to Aodh Ruadh Ó Domhnaill," an O'Donnell chieftain inaugurated at the Rock of Doon, c. 1592 1

The Mass Rock

Following the left path, you will find a mass rock when you face the Well after about 100 meters of walking.

Doon mass rock is an important historic site that played an essential role in preserving the Catholic faith during the Penal Years. From 1695 to 1741, the British government imposed a series of laws that restricted the rights of Irish Catholics to practice their religion openly. As a result, the Catholic Church in Ireland was forced underground, and priests faced severe persecution and punishment if caught celebrating mass.

To avoid detection by British authorities, Catholics in Ireland turned to secret locations, such as Doon mass rock, to celebrate mass in secret. The site is a large boulder situated in a quiet and secluded area, surrounded by trees and vegetation. According to local tradition, the rock was chosen for its remote location and natural shelter from the elements, making it an ideal place for secret worship.

Conclusion

Together, Doon Well, Doon Rock, and the Mass Rock tell a compelling story about the rich cultural heritage of Donegal and its people. They serve as an essential link to Donegal's past and remind us of the sacrifices made by previous generations to protect their traditions and beliefs. Visiting these landmarks is an opportunity to learn more about Irish history and culture, reflect on our ancestors' struggles, and honour their memory.

pictures by Elena T

If you want to learn more about Doon rock history, follow the link.

Tips:

1. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the paths leading to the sites, can be steep and rocky.

1. Respect the sacred nature of the sites and follow any posted rules or regulations.

1. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and unique features of the sites.

1. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid making excessive noise or leaving litter behind.

1. Take some time to reflect on the history and cultural significance of the sites and appreciate the efforts of previous generations to preserve them.

1. Consider bringing a small offering to leave at the rag trees or Mass Rock.

1. Check the weather forecast before your visit and come prepared for rain or wind, as the sites are located in an exposed area.

1. Finally, enjoy the experience and take in the natural beauty and tranquillity of these unique landmarks.