Gainsborough Old Hall in Lincolnshire, once graced by Henry VIII and Catherine Howard, has revealed itself as a hotbed of supernatural defence. Thanks to the eagle-eyed efforts of English Heritage volunteer Rick Berry, this 15th-century manor now boasts the most identified 'witches marks' of any of the charity’s 400 historic properties.
Over two years, Berry uncovered around 20 carvings, with a particular concentration in the servants' wing.
These apotropaic marks – or ‘witches marks’ – designed to ward off evil, include everything from rudimentary circles (believed to trap demons) to intricate overlapping 'V's, or Marian marks, invoking the Virgin Mary’s protection.
Even a pentangle – historically a shield against evil – makes an appearance, shedding its modern, sinister reputation.
"It's astonishing that, centuries on, the amazing old buildings in our care still have secrets waiting to be discovered," says Kevin Booth, English Heritage's Head of Collections.
"The Old Hall has undoubtedly had a tumultuous past, not least under the ownership of the apparently unpopular William Hickman, but why it's the scene of quite such a high concentration of protective carvings remains a mystery."
Speaking of Hickman, the research unveiled rare "curse" inscriptions, including his name written upside down – a practice believed to curse the named person. This discovery is a first for English Heritage sites.
But that's not all – the hall also boasts about 100 burn marks, once thought to protect against fire.
"Rick’s passion for the place has unlocked incredible stories hidden in its walls,” Booth adds, leaving visitors eager to uncover the enigmatic history embedded in this seemingly “protected” hall.
The findings elevate Gainsborough Old Hall to the top tier of spooky destinations, vying for the title of 'most haunted' among English Heritage’s properties, which include sites such as Boscobel House, Bolsover Castle and Deal Castle.
Main image: undeciphered writing at Gainsborough Old Hall/English Heritage
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