Cairnton stone facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Cairnton Stone |
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|---|---|
| Height | 1.3 metres (4.3 ft) |
| Width | 0.91 metres (3.0 ft) |
| Symbols |
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| Discovered | 2001, Cairnton Farm, Aberdeenshire |
| Present location | Marishal Museum, Aberdeen, Scotland |
| Coordinates | 57°16′04″N 2°14′19″W / 57.2678°N 2.2386°W |
| Classification | Class I incised stone |
| Culture | Picto-Scottish |
The Cairnton Stone is an ancient stone from Scotland. It was discovered in 2001 near Newmachar in Aberdeenshire. This special stone is known as a Class I Pictish stone. It has unique symbols carved into its surface. Today, you can see the Cairnton Stone at the Marischal Museum in Aberdeen.
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The Cairnton Stone: A Glimpse into History
The Cairnton Stone offers us a peek into the lives of the Picts. These were people who lived in ancient Scotland. They left behind many mysterious stones like this one. Each stone tells a part of their story.
Who Were the Picts?
The Picts were a group of people who lived in eastern and northern Scotland. They lived there from the late Iron Age to the early Middle Ages. This was roughly from the 3rd to the 9th century AD. We don't know much about them because they didn't write down their history. What we do know comes from their amazing artwork. This includes their famous Pictish stones.
What Are Pictish Stones?
Pictish stones are large stones with carvings on them. They were made by the Picts. These stones often show animals, objects, or strange symbols. They are found all over Scotland. Historians believe they might have marked important places. They could also have been memorials or told stories.
There are different types of Pictish stones. The Cairnton Stone is a "Class I" stone. This means it's a rough stone with symbols carved directly into it. These stones usually don't have any Christian symbols.
How Was the Cairnton Stone Found?
The Cairnton Stone was found by chance in 2001. It was discovered at Cairnton Farm near Newmachar. This area is in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Finding such an old stone helps us learn more about the Picts. It adds to our knowledge of their culture and art.
What Symbols Are on the Stone?
The Cairnton Stone has two main symbols carved into it. These are common Pictish symbols.
- Crescent and V-rod: This symbol looks like a crescent moon with a V-shaped rod crossing it. No one knows for sure what it means. Some think it might represent the moon or a shield. Others believe it could be a symbol of power or status.
- Triple Disc: This symbol shows three circles or discs. They are often connected in some way. Like the crescent, its meaning is a mystery. It might represent something important to the Picts, like a family or a tribe.
These symbols are very important. They are some of the only clues we have about Pictish beliefs.
Where Can You See the Cairnton Stone Today?
After its discovery, the Cairnton Stone was moved to a museum. It is now part of the collection at the Marischal Museum. This museum is located in Aberdeen, Scotland. If you visit, you can see this ancient stone up close. It's a great way to connect with Scotland's past.
