When I made a visit to the Trevethy Quoit in Cornwall, near to where I live, I also went on to the village of St.Cleer and it's Holy Well, as per the photos. Though not as impressive, or as ancient as the Quoit, it still goes back to the 15th century when it was used as a magical 'bowsening' pool. So called mad people would be dunked into the waters to cure their insanity.

Next to the well is an ancient 7 foot cross. There are variations as to whom the St Cleer Holy Well is dedicated. One version is that it is to St Clare, a 12th century disciple of St. Francis. Others argue that it is to St Clarus, a 9th century Benedictine monk. He landed himself in a bit of bother when a noblewoman made romantic advances to him, which he turned down - so he ended up being beheaded.
It's not known who the monk like figure is in the niche at the front of the well house, as photo below.

Further Reading:
The Cornish Mystery Of Trevethy Quoit
The Cornish Mystery Of The Men-an-Tol Stones
In Search Of The Birth Of Spirits At Eden

Wonderful post, thank you for sharing this Mike.
ReplyDeleteI enjoy this various travel and the historical stuff, Mike. It seems to be that you live in the midst of antiquity!
ReplyDeleteanother interesting post about cornwall you must be boosting their tourism
ReplyDelete