Unprecedented Witches' Marks Found at Gainsborough Old Hall

A volunteer discovers a remarkable collection of protective carvings and curses at the Tudor site, puzzling historians.

Rick Berry, a volunteer with English Heritage, uncovered approximately 20 apotropaic marks at Gainsborough Old Hall, the highest number found at any of the charity's sites.
These marks, believed to protect against evil, include Marian marks, hexafoils, and pentangles, with a notable concentration in the servants' wing.
The discovery also includes rare curse inscriptions, such as the defaced name of former owner William Hickman, indicating historical practices of cursing.
About 100 burn marks, intended to protect against fire, were found alongside the carvings, adding to the site's mysterious past.
Despite the high concentration of marks, the reason for their abundance at this particular location remains unknown, sparking intrigue among historians.