Spinster's Rock: A Glimpse into Devon's Neolithic Past

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of Dartmoor National Park in Devon, England, lies a fascinating relic of the past – Spinsters' Rock. This impressive dolmen, also known as a cromlech, is a testament to the ingenuity and beliefs of the Neolithic people who inhabited the region over 4,000 years ago.

What is a Dolmen?

The word "dolmen" comes from the Breton language and translates to "stone table." These megalithic structures typically consist of large, flat capstones supported by several upright stones. They were primarily used as burial chambers, serving as final resting places for the deceased.

Spinsters' Rock: A Survivor of Time

Spinsters' Rock is the most well-preserved dolmen in Devon. It comprises three granite supports, each reaching heights between 5.5 and 7.5 feet, holding aloft a massive capstone measuring an impressive 15 by 10 feet. Unfortunately, the surrounding barrow, which would have originally covered the dolmen with earth and stones, has eroded away over time, leaving only the chamber visible today.

A Story of Mystery and Folklore

Despite its impressive presence, Spinsters' Rock holds its secrets close. Historical records reveal no documented archaeological finds associated with the site, leaving us with unanswered questions about the lives and practices of the people who built it. However, the dolmen's name itself sparks the imagination. Local legend recounts the tale of three spinsters who used the time waiting for a wool collector to spin, suggesting the structure's imposing presence served as a landmark even centuries later.

A Window into the Past

Spinsters' Rock stands as a silent sentinel, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. While its exact purpose and the lives it sheltered remain shrouded in mystery, it serves as a powerful reminder of the ingenuity and cultural significance of these ancient monuments. Visiting Spinsters' Rock allows us to connect with the past, ponder the lives of those who came before us, and appreciate the enduring legacy they left behind.



© 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

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

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