Inscriptions found at Nevern Castle

[Rowan]

During an excavation at Nevern Castle in Pembrokeshire, slate inscriptions dating to the 12th century were discovered. Archaeologists believe the marks were made by a laborer or soldier when the castle was constructed and were intended to ward off evil. Phil Bennett, the head of Pembrokeshire Coastal National Park Authority, stated, "These drawings connect us with the lives and beliefs of masons or labourers who built the castle."

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[EC2]

Hmmm - they look more like doodles to me. Perhaps the guy was just bored!

[Margaret]

I feel kind of doubtful about that theory, too. Why would a serf (presumably feeling at least somewhat resentful about having to work on the castle instead of the plot where he raises food for his family) want to ward off evil from the castle? If it's to ward off evil from the people doing the work, wouldn't the drawings be found all over the castle site, and not just in one particular area?

[annis]

It's probably an illiterate worker's version of "Baldric was here"

[PJR]

Archeaologists have a worrying tendency to label almost every new find as having deep religious significance. This no doubt gets them brownie points for their dissertation, and it may been even be true; there's no doubt that medieval England was a scary place, and that people did believe in ghosts witches and goblins (some still do, which is even more scary). But wall scratchings are far more likely to be what some bored out of his skull guard did to while away his night watch.

Phil

[Divia]

I agree with the majority. we are a smart lot. I dont think it is anything. If it was I'm sure they could draw something a little more defined.