STONE BOTHERING

In the heart of Cornwall, England, stands a testament to a bygone era: Trethevy Quoit. Known locally as "the giant's house," this impressive megalithic structure is a well-preserved example of a portal dolmen, a type of burial chamber dating back to the Neolithic period (around 3500-2500 BC). Standing at nearly 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall, Trethevy Quoit is formed by five massive upright stones topped with a giant capstone. The structure's name itself offers a clue to its origins. "Trethevy" translates from Cornish to "place of the graves," hinting at its likely purpose as a communal tomb for ancestors. A Look Inside the Giant's House Unlike many dolmens, Trethevy Quoit has a unique feature: a small, moveable stone at the front that once allowed access to the chamber. However, for preservation reasons, this entrance is rarely opened today. Interestingly, the back of the chamber has collapsed inwards, adding to the monument's intrigue. More Tha...

Standing tall and weathered on Minchinhampton Common in Gloucestershire, England, lies the Longstone. This prehistoric monument, shrouded in both time and local legend, is a fascinating piece of history that continues to spark curiosity today. Made from oolitic limestone, the Longstone reaches an impressive 7.5 feet (2.3 meters) in height. Its most striking feature is the collection of natural holes that pierce through the stone. These holes have fueled much of the folklore surrounding the Longstone. Local tradition whispers that passing a child through one of these holes can cure them of childhood ailments. Measles, whooping cough, and rickets are all said to be treatable by this curious method. Another legend claims that at the stroke of midnight, the Longstone comes alive, frolicking and dancing across the field! While the truth behind these stories remains a mystery, there's no denying the Longstone's long history. The stone is estimated to be over 4,000 years old, placing ...

Plague stones are found across England, and are usually in the form of hollowed-out stones or boulders. These stones are relics of the medieval plagues, and were used as a way to try to prevent the spread of disease. During the plague, people were terrified of catching the disease. They believed that it was contagious, and that it could be spread through contact with infected people or objects. Plague stones were placed along roads and at parish boundaries. They were filled with vinegar or another disinfectant, and people would place coins in the hollows. The idea was that people could buy food and other goods from outsiders without having to come into direct contact with them. Plague stones were also used to mark the graves of plague victims. This was done to help prevent people from accidentally disturbing the graves and spreading the disease. Today, plague stones are a sobering reminder of a bygone era. They are a testament to the fear and suffering that people endured during the pl...

Gloucestershire, a county rich in history and natural beauty, is home to a fascinating collection of ancient sites. Among these, the long barrows—prehistoric burial chambers—stand out as a remarkable testament to the region’s Neolithic past. These ancient structures, built thousands of years ago, provide a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural practices of early Britons. In this blog post, we’ll explore five of Gloucestershire’s most significant ancient sites. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of archaeology, or simply curious about the county’s past, these ancient sites offer a journey through time. BELLAS KNAP LONG BARROW: A MYSTERIOUS MONUMENT Located near the village of Woodmancote, Bellas Knap Long Barrow is one of Gloucestershire’s most impressive Neolithic burial sites. Dating back to around 3000 BC, this chambered long barrow features a series of burial chambers and is believed to have been used for communal burial practices. The barrow itself is a striking exa...

When you think of Wiltshire, the iconic Stonehenge often steals the spotlight, drawing millions of visitors eager to marvel at its prehistoric grandeur. However, this enchanting county is home to a treasure trove of lesser-known ancient sites that are equally steeped in history and mystery. From long barrows to stone circles, these hidden gems offer a glimpse into the rich tapestry of our prehistoric past. Let’s embark on a journey to discover some of Wiltshire’s fascinating lesser-known sites. LANHILL LONG BARROW Tucked away near the village of Lanhill, this long barrow dates back to the Neolithic period. Measuring approximately 60 meters long, it features a large earthen mound that likely served as a burial site for early communities. The tranquility of the surrounding countryside adds to the site's allure, making it an ideal spot for contemplation and reflection. While the site may not attract the crowds of its more famous counterparts, its understated beauty and historical sign...

Cornwall, located in the southwestern tip of England, is home to some of the most intriguing and well-preserved ancient sites in the United Kingdom. These landmarks, steeped in history, offer a glimpse into the lives of the early inhabitants of the British Isles. From Neolithic stone circles to Bronze Age burial chambers, Cornwall’s ancient sites are a must-visit for history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and anyone interested in the mysteries of the past. In this blog post, we will take you through some of the most fascinating ancient sites in Cornwall. MEN-AN-TOL One of Cornwall’s most famous and enigmatic sites is Men-an-Tol. This prehistoric monument, believed to date back to the Bronze Age, consists of four upright stones, one of which has a large circular hole in the center. The exact purpose of Men-an-Tol is unknown, but it is thought to have had ritualistic significance, possibly related to fertility or healing. Many local legends surround Men-an-Tol, including the belief tha...

England's landscape is steeped in history, whispering tales of bygone eras. But beyond the majestic castles and crumbling ruins lie silent sentinels: stones imbued with a mysterious power – the power to heal. For millennia, cultures across the globe have attributed healing properties to various crystals and minerals. England is no exception. Evidence suggests our ancestors not only appreciated the beauty of these stones, but also believed they held the key to wellness. Rock Crystal: A Window to the Soul Unearthed at Dorstone Hill, Herefordshire, lie hundreds of rock crystal fragments – the largest such discovery in Britain. These translucent beauties weren't crafted into tools, but rather placed near burials, hinting at a deeper purpose. Perhaps the Neolithic people saw them as conduits to the spirit world, or maybe they valued their clarity for promoting clear thinking and inner peace. Stonehenge: More Than Just a Monument Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is shrouded...