Archaeology & History

'Witches' marks' found in old church ruins

By T.K. Randall
October 23, 2020

Image: Various Artifacts of Traditional Witchcraft
Credit: Malcolm Lidbury (aka Pinkpasty) / CC BY-SA 3.0 (adapted) Found at the remains of a church in Stoke Mandeville, Buckinghamshire, the markings exhibit multiple designs, including one that resembles a bicycle wheel (pictured above) and another with multiple points joined at the center with a vaguely circular or flower-like outline around the outside.

Dating back 900 years to medieval times, St Mary's Church was abandoned in 1866 with the construction of a new church closer to the village.

Experts believe that the markings are what are known as witches' marks - special symbols and patterns designed to trap spirits within their endless lines."[It is] a fascinating insight into the past," said archaeologist Michael Court. "Discoveries such as these unusual markings have opened up discussions as to their purpose and usage."

Excavations at the site are currently being undertaken in preparation for the construction of the new HS2 railway line which will pass through the area.

Archaeologists have said that the work has revealed "years of heritage and British history."

HS2 archaeologists have uncovered #medieval graffiti and ‘witching' marks, while excavating the remains of St Mary's Church, Stoke Mandeville. Some of the marks could also be interpreted as early sun dials too. Learn more about this #HS2 #archaeology: https://t.co/Q5iz0Y5cMM pic.twitter.com/T8Ck5Ei7lS

— HS2 Ltd (@HS2ltd) October 20, 2020

Source: BBC News

Tags: Witch, Medieval