Broomend of Crichie stone facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Broomend of Crichie Stone |
|
|---|---|
_(geograph_5555392).jpg) |
|
| Symbols |
|
| Present location | Port Elphinstone, Inverurie, Aberdeenshire |
| Coordinates | 57°16′02″N 2°22′04″W / 57.2672°N 2.3677°W |
| Classification | Class I incised stone |
| Culture | Picto-Scottish |
The Broomend of Crichie Stone is a special ancient stone from Scotland. It's known as a Pictish stone because it was made by the Picts. These were people who lived in Scotland many centuries ago.
This stone stands inside a very old circular earthwork called a henge. You can find it near Port Elphinstone, in Inverurie, Aberdeenshire, Scotland. The stone was moved into the henge in the 1800s.
Contents
Discover the Broomend of Crichie Stone
The Broomend of Crichie Stone is a type of ancient monument. It helps us learn about the Picts. These people lived in what is now eastern and northern Scotland during the Late Iron Age and Early Medieval periods. They were known for their unique art and symbols.
What is a Pictish Stone?
Pictish stones are large stones with special carvings. They were made by the Picts. These carvings often show animals, objects, or strange symbols. The Broomend of Crichie Stone is a "Class I" Pictish stone. This means it's a natural stone that hasn't been changed much, except for the symbols carved into it.
Uncovering Ancient Symbols
The Broomend of Crichie Stone has two main symbols carved into its surface:
- The Pictish beast: This is a mysterious animal that looks a bit like a sea monster or elephant. No one is completely sure what it represents.
- The crescent and V-rod: This symbol looks like a crescent moon with a zig-zagging rod going through it. It's another common Pictish symbol, but its meaning is also a bit of a puzzle.
These symbols might have been used to mark territory, remember important people, or tell stories.
The Henge: An Ancient Circle
The stone stands within a henge. A henge is a type of ancient monument. It's usually a circular area enclosed by an earth bank and a ditch. People built henges thousands of years ago. They were likely used for special ceremonies or gatherings.
The henge at Broomend of Crichie is an important historical site. It includes an avenue (a path), other standing stones, and the symbol stone itself. Because it's so important, the entire site is a "scheduled monument." This means it's protected by law to make sure it stays safe for future generations to learn from.
