The Merry Maidens: A Unique Stone Circle in Cornwall
If you are looking for a unique and mysterious experience, then The Merry Maidens stone circle in Cornwall, England is one of the most fascinating places to visit. Located on the south-western tip of the country, The Merry Maidens is an ancient stone circle believed to have been created in the late Neolithic period.
The stones are thought to have been placed as a place of worship, and the site has been associated with both pagan and Christian traditions. This makes The Merry Maidens an interesting site for both history and culture buffs alike.
A Brief History of The Merry Maidens
The Merry Maidens stone circle is one of the most well-known and visited of the hundreds of stone circles in England. It is thought to have been built in the late Neolithic period, around 2400 BC and is thought to have been a place of worship for the local people. The stone circle is believed to be associated with the Celtic goddess of fertility, Brigid, and the 19 stones are thought to represent her 19 handmaidens.
The site has been associated with both pagan and Christian traditions, and the local legend is that of the 19 maidens who were turned into stone for dancing on the Sabbath. The origin of the site is still a mystery, and it is unclear why it was built in that particular location.
Visiting The Merry Maidens Stone Circle
The Merry Maidens stone circle is located approximately two miles north of the village of Lamorna. It is free to visit and well-signposted from the B3315 road. Upon arrival, visitors are treated to a stunning view of the circle, set against a backdrop of rolling hills.
The stone circle is made up of 19 stones, each measuring between 1.2 and 1.5 metres in height, with a diameter of approximately 28 metres. The stones are thought to have been brought from the surrounding area and are all of a similar shape and size.
The stone circle is thought to have been aligned with the midsummer sunrise, and the site has been associated with the Celtic goddess of fertility, Brigid. The site is also associated with local legends, such as the story of the 19 maidens who were turned to stone for dancing on the Sabbath.
The site is now managed by English Heritage and is a popular tourist destination for those interested in history and archaeology. There are also some great walking routes in the area, as well as a fantastic view of the sea from the nearby cliffs.
Conclusion
The Merry Maidens stone circle is one of the most iconic and mysterious sites in England. It is thought to have been built in the late Neolithic period and is associated with both pagan and Christian traditions. Visiting The Merry Maidens is a great way to experience the mystery and beauty of this ancient site, as well as to take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.