While near the village of St.Cleer I looked in on their Holy Well. It is said to go back to the 15th century. It was then used as a magic 'bowsening' pool. So called because 'mad people' would be dunked into the waters to cure their insanity!
I say the well is 15th century, but it was knocked down during the English Civil War - 1642 to 1651. The Cornish granite stones though remained in place. It was said that if any of them were ever moved or stolen they would find their own way back ... creepy!
In the 1800s the jigsaw that was the Holy Well was put together again - as it remains today.
Next to the well is an ancient 7 foot tall cross (can be partly seen in the first photo). There are several variations as to whom the St. Cleer well is dedicated. One version is St.Clarus, a 12th century Benedictine monk. He landed himself in bit of bother when a noblewoman made romantic advances to him - which, of course, he turned down. But the result of this was that he was beheaded - though some versions of the story say he fled to France.
It's not known who the monk like figure is in the niche at the front of the well.
Hope the New Year is being kind to you,
Good wishes ~ Mike.
Very interesting to hear the story of this well and how it was rebuilt after such a long time. Cornwall has so many stories and legends from the past.
ReplyDeleteThanks David. Yes, many Cornish stories to be told.
DeleteWhat an interesting story, Mike. I like your understatement about the poor monk who suffered for refusing the noblewoman’s advances. A bit of bother says it all :)
ReplyDeleteHello, hope the New Year is being kind to you. It was probably quite easy to get into a bit of bother many years ago! All good wishes.
DeleteHaha, I had a giggle at 'a bit of bother too'. What a fascinating place Mike. Many thanks for sharing your photos and tales :)
ReplyDeleteThanks Lulu, good wishes.
DeletePlease accept my best wishes for this 2023, Very happy days for you and family !!
ReplyDeleteThank you kindly.
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