The Govan Stones, Early medieval stone collection at Govan Old Parish Church, Glasgow, Scotland
The Govan Stones consist of forty-five carved monuments from the early medieval period, including a sarcophagus, crosses, grave markers, and distinctive hogback stones with ridge-like tops. They are displayed inside the church building and represent the skilled stonework of their time.
These stones date from the 9th to 11th centuries and were created to honor rulers of the Brittonic Kingdom of Strathclyde in medieval Scotland. They were made during a period when this region held its own kingdom before it was absorbed into the larger Scottish realm.
The stones display intricate carvings with Celtic patterns, hunting scenes, and religious symbols that reveal what mattered to early medieval communities. These designs show how craftspeople expressed the beliefs and status of those they were made to honor.
Entry is free and the stones can be viewed inside the church building during its opening hours. Plan your visit in advance by checking access times, and be prepared for a quiet indoor setting where the stones are closely displayed.
A teenager discovered one of the stones by chance in 2019 after it had been lost since a shipyard demolition in the 1970s. This rediscovery demonstrates how pieces of history can disappear and resurface unexpectedly decades later.
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