Archaeology Plan

06/08/2026

On the 22nd of August Archaeology Plan will be hosting two events in lovely Leitrim for Heritage Week 2026.

- At 11.30am in Drumshanbo Library, join Archaeologist Alva Mac Gowan and historian John Cronin and learn about the Holy Wells of Co. Leitrim. The talk will look at the origins, names, associated rituals, healing and folklore associated with these culturally important sites. The talk will also cover the results of a county-wide field survey of Leitrim's Holy Wells. Community involvement has been an important part of this initiative, project volunteers have proven invaluable in collecting local knowledge, we would very much welcome members of the community to share any stories they may have about local Holy Wells after the talk.

- At 2pm Alva and John will lead a pilgrimage to the lesser known, St Brigid's Well in Greaghnafarna townland. The guided walk will start at the front gate of St. Hugh’s Catholic Church, Drumnafinnila, Ballinagleragh, Co. Leitrim, where you will follow the ancient pilgrimage route along an old country lane to St. Brigid’s Well.

Perhaps you’d like to continue the ancient tradition and set a special intention whilst adding a stone to the pilgrim’s cairn? Whatever your religious/spiritual persuasion - all are most welcome!

The Leitrim Community Holy Wells Project (2026) is a community heritage initiative, funded by Leitrim County Council and co-ordinated by Archaeology Plan to research Holy Wells across Co. Leitrim.

Please see links below for more information!

Talk:

https://www.heritageweek.ie/event-listings/the-leitrim-community-holy-wells-project-2026

Guided walk/pilgrimage:

https://www.heritageweek.ie/event-listings/leitrim-holy-well-pilgrimage

13/05/2026

Archaeology Plan are seeking experienced Archaeological Site Assistants and Supervisors for sites in the Greater Dublin area, including Ballyfermot and Donabate as well as other urban and rural projects.

Start date: Immediately
Site Assistants: €675 & subs of €25-50 depending on site location
Experienced Supervisors: €750 & subs of €25-50 depending on site location

No accommodation provided.
Valid Safe Pass and Manual Handling certificate are required.
Please fill in the form at https://forms.gle/MRp2Yi7bQw9Vhyju5

01/05/2026

Our Holy Wells project with Leitrim County Council was recently featured in the Leitrim Observer, read all about it below.

A reminder that if you would like to get involved then please get in touch ASAP and register your interest!

The oral history collection, field survey and archival research training for volunteers will be organised in mid-May so if you would like to be part of this then please let us know soon.

On behalf of the team here at Archaeology Plan, have a great bank holiday weekend!

Leitrim County Council has launched a new project with Archaeology Plan to survey and document the county’s holy wells, with volunteers invited to help record history and traditions.

29/04/2026

We are starting an exciting new project this month studying the holy wells of County Leitrim!

The project aims to collect information on the folklore, local history and traditions surrounding holy wells across the county.

We are looking for volunteers to join us for training in oral history collection, archival research and field survey, then please get in touch!

Or if you have information about a holy well local to you in Leitrim, we would love to hear from you!

Contact details can be found on the poster