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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Entertainment
Dalya Alberge

No evidence for ‘witches’ marks’ claims at old English buildings, historian says

Circular markings on a stone wall
Markings in Tithe Barn, Bradford-on-Avon, in an image released by Historic England in 2016. Photograph: Peter Williams/PA

Over the years, English Heritage and Historic England have claimed to have identified large numbers of “witches’ marks” or “ritual protection symbols” on the walls of historic buildings, including medieval churches and houses.

Now a leading architectural historian has said there is “absolutely no evidence” that these marks have anything to do with witches or any “mystical meanings”.

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