Wayland's Smithy: A Hidden Gem of Neolithic England

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Oxfordshire, England, lies Wayland's Smithy, an enigmatic relic of the Neolithic era. This ancient burial mound, dating back to around 3600 BC, is not only a captivating historical site but also a source of enduring folklore and mythology.

Wayland's Smithy is an impressive sight, even after millennia of weathering. The long barrow, approximately 90 feet long and 20 feet wide, is constructed from earth and sarsen stones, a type of sandstone found in the area. Within the mound lies a central chamber, once used for the interment of the dead.

Archaeological excavations have unearthed a wealth of artefacts from the site, including pottery, tools, and human remains. These findings provide valuable insights into the lives of the people who built Wayland's Smithy and the rituals they practiced.

The name Wayland's Smithy has been linked to the Germanic smith-god Wayland or Weland. This legendary figure, also known as Volund in Norse mythology, is renowned for his exceptional craftsmanship and magical abilities.

Folklore tells that Wayland, skilled in metalworking, set up his forge within the barrow, using its secluded location to create extraordinary objects. Travelers would leave their horseshoes and coins at the entrance to the barrow, and upon their return, they would find their horses shod and their coins replaced with finely crafted items.

The exact purpose of Wayland's Smithy remains shrouded in mystery. Some believe it was solely a burial site, while others suggest it served as a religious or ceremonial center. The association with Wayland, the smith-god, adds another layer of intrigue to the site.

Whether it was a place of reverence, a workshop of legend, or a combination of both, Wayland's Smithy stands as a testament to the ingenuity and beliefs of the Neolithic people. Its enduring presence in folklore and its captivating location make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, mythology, or simply the mysteries of the past.





© All rights reserved

Popular Posts

Lanhill Long Barrow: A Window into Neolithic Britain

Image
Lanhill Long Barrow also known as Hubba's Low, is a Neolithic long barrow located in Wiltshire, England. It is one of the best-preserved long barrows in the Cotswolds-Severn Group, and is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. The barrow is oriented east-west and measures 56 meters long and 4 meters high. It has a roughly oval shape, with a rounded end at the east and a slightly pointed end at the west. The barrow is made up of earth and rubble, and is surrounded by a ditch. The barrow was excavated in 1909, and three burial chambers were discovered. However, only the southernmost burial chamber survives today. The chamber is rectangular in shape and measures 2.5 meters long, 1.5 meters wide, and 1 meter high. It is made up of large sarsen stones, and the roof is now supported by steel bars. The burial chamber contained the remains of at least 12 people, as well as a variety of grave goods, including pottery, flint tools, and jewelry. The grave goods suggest that the barrow was used for com...
Read more

The Enigmatic Stones of Avebury

Image
Nestled in the heart of Wiltshire, England, Avebury is one of the most intriguing prehistoric sites in the world. While Stonehenge often steals the limelight, Avebury offers an expansive and fascinating landscape dotted with ancient stones, each steeped in history and legend. Let’s take a closer look at these remarkable features. DEVIL'S CHAIR The Devil's Chair is a striking formation within Avebury, shaped like a throne or seat. Legend has it that this stone was once used by the Devil himself to survey the surrounding landscape. The tale goes that the Devil would sit here, tempting passersby with mischief. This stone exudes an aura of mystery, drawing visitors to ponder its dark associations. Whether you believe in folklore or not, the imposing presence of the Devil's Chair is undeniable, making it a must-see for anyone visiting the site. RING STONE According to local legend, the Ring Stone was once whole and stood proudly as a pivotal part of the Avebury circle. However, ...
Read more

Devilishly Intriguing: Exploring Oxfordshire's Mysterious Quoits

Image
Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Oxfordshire, England, lies a site shrouded in legend and history: the Devil's Quoits. This evocative name hints at its ancient past, a past that stretches back 4, 000-5, 000 years to the Neolithic period. While not as widely known as its larger cousin, Stonehenge, the Devil's Quoits possess a charm and mystery all their own. A Circle Whispers Tales: Standing as a henge and stone circle, the Quoits boast an impressive circumference of 100 meters. Originally consisting of around 50 massive stones, only 17 remain upright today. Yet, even in their partially restored state, they whisper tales of a bygone era. Imagine Neolithic people gathering within this sacred space, conducting rituals under the watchful gaze of the sun and moon. What ceremonies did they perform? What beliefs did they hold? The stones, silent yet eloquent, leave these questions to fuel our imaginations. The Devil's Game: The name, "Devil's Quoi...
Read more