Author:
Misstear Bruce,Gill Laurence
Abstract
AbstractSacred wells and springs are important cultural features in many societies. A recent study in Ireland may be the first detailed countrywide investigation of the hydrogeology and water chemistry of sacred wells. Key findings are discussed in relation to case studies elsewhere. A wide range of hydrogeological settings are represented. There is evidence of anthropogenic impacts at many sacred springs and wells. Communication of potential health impacts is necessary but challenging, because of the sensitivities surrounding these sacred water sources.
Funder
University of Dublin, Trinity College
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Reference30 articles.
1. Baiocchi A, Lotti F, Piscopo V (2013) Impact of groundwater withdrawals on the interaction of multi-layered aquifers in the Viterbo geothermal area (central Italy). Hydrogeol J 21:1339–1353
2. Banks D (1997) The spas of England. In: Albu M, Banks D, Nash H (eds) Mineral and thermal groundwater resources. Chapman and Hall, London, pp 235–280
3. Berhe GG, Sbhatu DB, Gebremamariam A (2023) Study of holy water consumed to treat gastrointestinal ailments in gold deposit areas of May-Hibey, Northwest Tigray, Ethiopia. H2O Open J 6(3):403. https://doi.org/10.2166/h2oj.2023.165
4. Bord J, Bord C (1985) Sacred waters: holy wells and water lore in Britain and Ireland. Granada, London, UK
5. Drew D (2018) Karst of Ireland: landscape, hydrogeology, methods. Geological Survey Ireland, Dublin, Ireland