Rights Managed > Royal Cornwall Museum > Places > St Merryn
St Constantines well, Constantine Bay, Cornwall. 1961
Filename: TRURI-EMERw-3a.tiff
Size: 7945 x 5427 (43.1MB)
Date: 24th October 2019
Source: Royal Cornwall Museum
County: Cornwall
Location Name: 50.530483, -4.983143
© RIC, photographer Charles Woolf
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Royal Cornwall Museum
St Constantines well, Constantine Bay, Cornwall. 1961
A good example of a holy well with a well basin, bench seat and well house. The well basin has clear water which forms a narrow channel through the well house. Along with St Constantines chapel, the well was a place of pilgrimage in medieval times. Pilgrims would wash their feet in the water which was believed to have miraculous properties. It was probably abandoned when the sand shifted and the settlement moved inland. The well is mentioned in 1700 but then disappeared beneath the sand and was seen again in 1911 when the sands moved. The well was restored in 1923 and in the 1950s a slate shelter was built over it. Photographer: Charles Woolf
Royal Cornwall Museum is the UK's Greatest Museum For Cornish Life & Culture
TRURI : EMERw.3a
Media ID 19584205
© RIC, photographer Charles Woolf
Archaeology Greenham Joyce Ruins Middle Ages
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the enchanting Constantine Bay in Cornwall, 1961. The image showcases St Constantines well, a remarkable example of a holy well that holds great historical significance. The photograph beautifully captures the essence of this sacred site, featuring a well basin, bench seat, and an intriguing well house. The crystal-clear water flows through the narrow channel within the structure, creating a serene atmosphere. In medieval times, both St Constantines chapel and the well were popular pilgrimage destinations. Pilgrims would visit this hallowed place to wash their feet in its miraculous waters believed to possess healing properties. Over time, as sand shifted and settlements moved inland, this ancient site was abandoned. However, it resurfaced briefly in 1911 when shifting sands revealed its hidden beauty once again. In 1923, efforts were made to restore the well's former glory before a slate shelter was constructed over it during the 1950s. Photographed by Charles Woolf with immense skill and attention to detail, this image not only documents ruins but also serves as an archaeological treasure trove for historians and enthusiasts alike. As we gaze upon this mesmerizing print from Royal Cornwall Museum's collection – filled with echoes of centuries past – we are transported back in time to witness the spiritual significance that once thrived at St Constantines Well.
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