A stone carved by Picts 1,200 years ago has been discovered in the Highlands. Archaeologists said the find is of national importance because it is one of only about 50 complete Pictish cross-slabs known to exist.
The Pictish stone was reused as a horizonal grave slab in the 1790s - hence the inscription in the top left corner [Credit: NOSAS] |
The Picts created cross-slabs - intricately decorated standing stones - and also constructed impressive hill forts to defend themselves against rival tribes and invaders. They battled against the Romans, Angles and the Vikings.
Mythical beasts
Archaeologists believe the newly-found stone would have originally measured more than two metres (6ft) tall. Just over a metre of it survives. It is decorated with a number of Pictish designs including several mythical beasts, oxen, an animal headed warrior with sword and shield, and symbols called a double disc and a z rod.
The stone and an illustration of carvings on one side of it [Credit: NOSAS] |
Ms MacInnes was carrying out a survey of the church site when she found the stone. She said "I was clearing vegetation when I spotted the carving. I really couldn't believe what I was seeing."
'Once-in-a-lifetime find'
Highland Council and Historic Environment Scotland archaeologist have since examined the stone and on Thursday it was carefully removed from the site by specialist conservators. It will now be professionally conserved with a view to eventually putting it on permanent public display at a Highlands museum or other suitable venue.
The stone was removed for specialists conservation work [Credit: NOSAS] |
Highland Council archaeologist Kirsty Cameron said it was a "once-in-a-lifetime find". She added: "All credit goes to the local archaeologists for immediately recognising the importance of the stone and putting plans in place for securing its future."
Source: BBC News Website [August 23, 2019]
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