Ardlair Stone facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Ardlair Stone |
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Ardlair Stone
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| Material | Grey Gneiss |
| Symbols |
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| Discovered | Identified as Pictish 1901 |
| Present location | Kennethmont, Aberdeenshire, Scotland |
| Coordinates | 57°20′19″N 2°44′27″W / 57.3385°N 2.7409°W |
| Classification | Class I incised stone |
| Culture | Picto-Scottish |
The Ardlair Stone is an ancient stone carved by the Picts, a mysterious people who lived in Scotland long ago. This special stone stands in a field in Ardlair, near Kennethmont, in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. It's thought to be connected to other stones nearby, which some people believe might have been part of an old stone circle.
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What is a Pictish Stone?
Pictish stones are large stones that the Picts carved with symbols and pictures. These stones are like ancient messages left behind by a people who didn't write much. They tell us a little about their beliefs and way of life.
The Picts lived in eastern and northern Scotland during the Late Iron Age and Early Medieval periods. They were known for their unique art and symbols.
There are different types, or "classes," of Pictish stones. The Ardlair Stone is a "Class I" stone. This means it's a rough, unshaped stone with symbols carved directly into its surface.
What Does the Ardlair Stone Look Like?
The Ardlair Stone is a natural, rough stone made of grey Gneiss. Gneiss is a type of rock that forms deep underground from heat and pressure. It was identified as a Pictish stone in 1901, which means experts recognized its ancient carvings.
The Symbols on the Stone
The stone has three main symbols carved into it:
- The Pictish beast: This is a common and mysterious symbol found on many Pictish stones. It looks a bit like a sea creature or a strange animal. No one is completely sure what it represents, but it might have been a mythical creature or an important animal to the Picts.
- The tuning fork: This symbol looks like a modern tuning fork, but its true meaning to the Picts is unknown. It could have been a tool, a weapon, or something with a deeper, symbolic meaning.
- The mirror: This symbol looks like a mirror, often shown with a comb. These symbols are often found together on Pictish stones. They might have been personal items, or they could have represented something about status or beauty.
These symbols are "incised," meaning they are cut or scratched into the stone's surface. Studying these symbols helps us learn more about the Picts and their culture.
Where Can You Find It?
The Ardlair Stone is located in a field in Ardlair, Kennethmont, Aberdeenshire. It's a protected ancient monument, which means it's important for history and is looked after carefully. Visiting sites like the Ardlair Stone helps us connect with the past and imagine what life was like for the Picts thousands of years ago.
