Coolfin - Bullaun Stones

This pair of Bullaun stones are found on either side of the entrance to the ruined 8th century church of Kilbunny near the village of Portlaw.

The stones here would be classed as portable Bullauns, so is not known if this was their original location or where they may have come from. However, what seems evident, is that they were most likely used at this site as holy water fonts.

The larger stone on the left side of the door (see photo below) measures 1 metre in length. It has an elongated profile and a long teardrop shaped basin. The smaller stone on the right side has a  more rounded shape and basin and is 0.6 meters in length.

Bullauns are thought to have been used as mortars for the grinding of grain or other substances. Folklore often attaches religious significance to them such being used for births or blessings or the belief that the rainwater collected in the stone's hollow had magical and healing properties.

Directions: Take the N25 from Waterford City towards Cork.  At a roundabout just outside Kilmeaden take the R680 signposted for Carrick on Suir.

After about 4km  you come to fork in the road. Take the road signposted for Portlaw. A short distance further along is the signpost for Kilbunny church which is in just a short distance off the road.

Click for Aardvark Map