The Folklore, Myths, and Legends surrounding certain magical waters, sacred springs, or holy wells.
As you drive up to the Tobar Ghobnatan Statue, Well, Hut, Grave, Church ruins, and yard, you will see on your right a wrought iron archway with the letters spelling “HOLY WELL” along its top. Another sign labels it as the “Tobar Ghobnatan Holy Well”.
A grand example of a large wishing tree (or rag tree) can be found at Tobar Ghobnatan in County Cork Ireland. It is a magical space of charm and tradition, with holy wells, shrines, mythology, and magical spots. As you drive up to the Tobar Ghobnatan Statue, Well, Hut, Grave, Church ruins, and yard, you will see on your right a wrought-iron archway with the letters spelling “HOLY WELL” along its top.
Much lore surrounds the hill, ranging from apparitions of a grey ghostly horse, a big black dog with blazing eyes, and a hold hag with bundles of faggots gliding towards the Holy Well. It is said the well was originally dedicated to St. Werburgh, a Saxon princess who ruled in 689 C.E.
“Wishing Trees” are very common throughout Ireland, England, and Scotland. They are usually individual trees upon which “folk magic”, “folk spells”, “faerie offerings”, or “prayers” are offered. Sometimes it is particular to a specific species, where the tree lives, or how it looks.