Sweathouse, Carrowblagh or Leckemy, Co. Donegal
In the townland of Carrowblagh Or Leckemy in County Donegal stands a sweathouse, one of Ireland's lesser-known archaeological treasures.
Sweathouse, Carrowblagh or Leckemy, Co. Donegal
These small stone structures, found primarily in the northern counties, served as early saunas where locals would treat ailments through intense heat therapy. The practice involved lighting a turf fire inside the chamber, allowing the stones to heat thoroughly, then removing the ashes before the patient entered to sweat out their illness.
Whilst many sweathouses across Ireland have fallen into ruin or been dismantled over the centuries, this example at Carrowblagh Or Leckemy remains part of the archaeological record maintained by the Archaeological Survey of Ireland. These structures offer fascinating insights into traditional healing practices that persisted in rural communities well into the 19th century, combining elements of ancient ritual with practical medicine.