Earth Mysteries

Holy Wells

Janet Bord Cures and Curses - Ritual & Cult at Holy Wells (Heart of Albion, 2006, 191pp pbk)

Why are some wells said to be miraculously created by saints? Why are the rituals associated with them sometimes about divination or cursing? What evidence is there for the water curing illnesses? What should be left there - rags, pins, coins, pebbles or even votive offerings? Cures and Curses provides an enticing overview for those looking for an introduction to holy wells and a source of reliable but little-known information for those already seduced by the allure of sacred springs.

Cures and CursesMore 14.95
Cheryl Straffon Fentynyow Kernow - In Search of Cornwall's Holy Wells (Meyn Mamvro, 64pp pbk)

125 of Cornwall's holy wells revisited, with maps, photographs, directions and full location details. Recounted in the form of 13 journeys around the different parts of Cornwall, capturing the atmosphere of the wells as they are today.New edition 2006

More 7.50
Edna Whelan The Magic and Mystery of Holy Wells (Capall Bann, 120pp pbk)

Fully illustrated and drawing on the field work by the author the reader is led into the world of magic, mystery and sanctity of ever running water. A source of knowledge, calm and inspiration from ancient magical waters.

The Magic and Mystery of Holy WellsMore 8.95
Philip Heselton Mirrors of Magic - Evoking the Spirit of the Dewponds (Capall Bann, 158pp pbk)

The image of the pond lies deep within our psyche. The abundant legend and folklore that surrounds ponds and pools, interpreted rightly, reveals the relationship which country people still had with the spirit of the landscape within living memory. This book shows that these " mirrors of magic" are locations where consciousness can be changed to experience the earth spirit and perform acts of magic and divination.

Mirrors of MagicMore 9.95
Christina Martin Sacred Springs (Wooden Books, 58pp pbk)

This pocket book tells the story of sacred springs and holy wells in the British Isles through carefully selected examples, beautifully illustrated by the author. A useful gazetteer at the back of the book catalogues further rewarding sites to visit.

Sacred SpringsMore 4.99