Archaeology & History

Tomb linked to King Arthur is set to be excavated

By T.K. Randall
July 2, 2022

Image: King Arthur
Credit: Charles Ernest Butler (1903) / (PD) Copyright Expired Situated in rural Herefordshire, this ancient stone structure consists of nine upright stones which support a larger 'capstone' believed to weigh upwards of 25 tons.

Underneath is thought to be some sort of burial chamber, however to date no evidence of remains has ever been discovered at the site, raising questions about who or what was once interred inside.

Now though, archaeologists from the University of Manchester are getting ready to excavate the site in an effort to determine once and for all exactly what lies beneath the stone.

"Arthur's Stone is one of the country's most significant Stone Age monuments," said Ginny Slade of English Heritage. "This gives a rare and exciting chance for the public to see archaeology in action."The stone is said to bear the marks of King Arthur's fight with a dragon and also served as the inspiration behind the stone table in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

Arthur himself remains steeped in mystery, with most historians agreeing that he was most likely a mythological figure.

Even so, the stories of his exploits have inspired countless tales of kings, dragons and wizards, including numerous modern-day TV, book and movie adaptations.

It will be very interesting to see what, if anything, lies beneath the stone which bears his name.

Source: Mail Online

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