Archaeology breakthrough: Medieval 'witch graffiti' unveils 'years of British history'
ARCHAEOLOGISTS were stunned to find medieval graffiti thought to have once been akin to witchcraft - in the process unveiling years of previously hidden truths of British heritage and history.
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The graffiti was found during construction on the Government's controversial HS2 project. Archaeologists say the etchings are associated with the warding off of evil spirits. A series of lines radiating from a drilled hole were unearthed on two stones.
These were found at an abandoned church in Stoke Mandeville, Buckinghamshire.
Historians believe the markings are from the 12th century, and have labelled them as "witches' marks".
They say they were created to protect against spirits.
This would have been done by trapping the spirits in an eternal maze.
Archaeologist Michael Court told the BBC it was "a fascinating insight into the past".
The explanation that the markings were created for protection is just one interpretation.
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Another suggests it could also have been used as a sundial.
HS2's route will go through the site of St Mary's Church.
It was abandoned in 1866.
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This was after a new church was built closer to the village.
Work to dismantle the forgotten place of worship and excavate the land around it will continue through to next year.
This will include removing and reburying bodies in new graves.
Mr Court, lead archaeologist for the high speed rail scheme, said the work on the line was revealing "years of heritage and British history".
He said: "Discoveries such as these unusual markings have opened up discussions as to their purpose and usage."
Protests have thus far marred the HS2 project.
Historians and activists alike claimed the route will uproot hundreds of years of history across England.
The Woodland Trust yesterday said it was "shocked and upset" after a pear tree, thought to be more than 250 years old, was cut down to make way for the line.
HS2 will cost an estimated £98billion, although costs have skyrocketed at every stage from inception to construction.