Church Curiosities: Strange Objects and Bizarre Legends
Ebook
In churches and cathedrals across Britain, tucked away among ordinary items such as pews, screens and pulpits, sit a plethora of fascinating and unexpected objects. From dragon-slaying spears and the ribs of monstrous cows, to pagan altars, reindeer horns and mummified skulls, these curiosities have intrigued generations of visitors. In this captivating history, David Castleton explores this fascinating world of lepers' squints, pancake bells, virgin garlands and sanctuary knockers, and unravels the tales, legends and folkloric ceremonies that lay behind these charming and often deeply unusual artefacts.
A guide to the eccentric and rare objects, tales and legends that lie hidden behind the doors of Britain's churches.
There are no other books in print about the weird and wonderful items that can be found in British churches – most focus on broad 'normal' themes in architecture and social history, but this focuses on some of the most unusual things.
David Castleton has an active Twitter feed with nearly 9,000 followers, often featuring similar weird stories and items.
This book fits in very well alongside Shire's established line of church and folklore titles, offering an interesting and accessible social history.
Introduction
Standing Stones, Runes and Pagan Altars
Legendary Skulls, Strange Remains and Weird Repositories
Giants' Graves, Odd Epitaphs and Resurrection Men
Mysterious Crypts, Secret Tunnels and Macabre Effigies
Holy Wells, Sacred Eels and Saints' Skulls
Odd Artefacts and Strange Ceremonies
An Emporium of Oddities
Further Reading
Index
A valuable and fascinating read.
- Title: Church Curiosities: Strange Objects and Bizarre Legends
- Author: David Castleton
- Publisher: Shire Publications
- Print Publication Date: 2021
- Logos Release Date: 2024
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Ebook
- ISBNs: 9781784424459, 1784424455
- Resource ID: LLS:9781784424459
- Resource Type: Monograph
- Metadata Last Updated: 2024-05-16T10:00:31Z
David Castleton is an author, poet, blogger and freelance journalist, best known for his novel The Standing Water. He has always had an interest in poking around ruined castles and abbeys and absorbing spooky old wive's tales and has taught English at the University of Manchester.