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Healing Well of St Madron

Well, Madron, Cornwall Legend Medieval

The Healing Well of St Madron, nestled in the Cornish countryside, is a site of ancient legend and mystique. This holy well, or spring, has been a source of fascination for centuries, attracting those seeking solace and healing. According to local lore, the well's waters have the power to cure the injured and diseased. Visitors have long employed a unique form of divination here, dropping pins or pebbles into the water and counting the bubbles that rise to the surface, with each bubble representing one year. This ancient practice allows individuals to pose time-based questions, seeking answers from the well's mystical energies.

Historical records indicate that this well has been a site of reverence for many years, with tales of its healing properties drawing people from far and wide. One of the most enduring legends associated with the well involves King Arthur, who, upon being told that the waters would scald a man who was not pure of heart, bravely placed his hand in the water and pulled it out unscathed. However, when his nemesis, Mordred, attempted the same, his hand was badly burned. This story has become an integral part of the well's folklore, symbolizing the power of purity and the consequences of deceit. Today, visitors can still experience the tranquility of this sacred site, surrounded by the natural beauty of Cornwall.

Historical Context

The well is associated with St Madron, a 5th-century Cornish saint.

Location

Location Details

Location Type
Holy Well
Activity Types
Visual Audio
Witness Credibility
Local Legend
Threat Level
Harmless
Accessibility
Public Access
Date / Era
Still present
Postcode Area
TR20

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