Doon mass rock is where secret mass was held during the penal years (1695 – 1741). During this time Irish Catholics were not allowed to openly practice their religion or display their faith. The Priests said mass under the threat of death. If caught they faced a horrendous death such as being placed into a barrel of nails and thrown over a cliff. This was called ‘Binn an Sagairt’ (hill of the priest) which is located near Doon.With the constant threat of death, the mass rocks in Ireland were located in rural areas. The congregation would secretly make their way from their homes and gather in remote locations. Many of the mass rocks today are now shrines attracting pilgrims from local areas and afar.Doon mass rock & Holy WellNo-one can go to Doon and not go to see the Holy Well. Situated beside Doon Rock, the Well is very accessible and is wheelchair friendly, placed in a pretty little garden beside a house the owners tend to the well and garden.
Doon Well’s origins, like most holy wells in Ireland, are pre-Christian. The natural spring water would have been used by the pagans either as a healing source or for inauguration ceremonies like of the O’Donnell clan.
Topic: Mass Rock (Read 347 times)