The coronation of the new monarch of the United Kingdom on May 6 will take place in the presence of the Stone of Destiny, which has more than 800 years of history. However, recent scientific research carried out by a team of scientists from Historic Environment Scotland has revealed unexpected details about this ancient artefact.
Symbols that have not been recorded before have been discovered on the Stone of Destiny, including markings that may be Roman numerals, as well as a copper alloy stain and remains of gypsum plaster, indicating that there are unknown aspects to the block's history.
The Stone of Destiny was used in the coronations of Scottish monarchs in the 13th century, and is currently used in the coronations of monarchs in the United Kingdom. It was transported from Scotland to England in 1296 and was only returned in the 20th century. Its history before the 13th century is unclear.
Studying the Stone of Destiny has allowed scientists from Historic Environment Scotland to identify markings similar to Roman numerals that have not previously been recorded. A total of three X-shaped marks were found, followed by markings that looked like the letter "v". Although scientists don't know why these symbols were carved or what they mean, they hope this will be an area for further research.
Additionally, a copper alloy stain was found on the stone, indicating that a copper or brass object may have been placed on it for a period of time at some point in its history. This may be due to the religious practices of the Middle Ages, when relics associated with saints were popular.
The research also revealed the presence of gypsum plaster on the Stone of Destiny, indicating that it was worked and decorated at some point in history. This suggests that the Stone of Destiny was not just a natural formation, but had a special meaning for people, perhaps associated with religious or cultural rituals.
In addition, the Stone of Destiny showed signs of wear and tear, indicating that it was used as an object of cultic worship or ritual ceremony. Research has also shown that various symbols and images were carved into the stone, which could have connections to the culture and beliefs of the peoples who used the Stone of Destiny.
Overall, research on the Stone of Destiny indicates that it played an important role in the religious and cultural life of ancient peoples, and its significance was not only symbolic, but also practical.