Wayland's Smithy (Through the Mists Of Time) by danob
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Description
Wayland's Smithy is one of the most impressive and atmospheric Neolithic burial chambers in Britain. Somehow this ancient grave became associated with Wayland, the Saxon god of metalworking, from whom it takes its name.
History
The burial chamber first constructed 5500 years ago, and underwent two distinct phases of construction, identified during excavations in the 1960's. In the first phase an oval mound was erected, which covered a wooden and stone structure with a floor paved with Sarcen stones. The remains of 14 bodies were found from this period, all badly damaged as if the roof had fallen in on them. No part of this structure now survives, as it was incorporated into the mound seen today.
In Phase 2, started around 3500BC, the mound was enlarged to the trapezoid shape using earth from two flanking ditches, which are no longer visible. The mound was edged with Sarcen slabs, and had a facade of 6 larger stones (two of which are missing) at the Southern end. A stone lined passage was built within this Southern face with two chambers forming a cruciform shape. When excavated the bones of 8 people were found, although the tomb had been robbed long before, probably during the Iron Age period.
Many myths and legends surround the place so I have waited for the right light, some mist and a bit of snow to help set the right atmosphere
Thanks for any comments you care to make and for taking time to take a look..
Comments (37)
GOLDILOCKSUK
What an interesting read and fantastic picture well done again :) Cathy xoxoxo
KiwiMiss
Stunning mood and capture!
Hopalong
Lovely with soft, subtle depthnailed the kairos beautifully in regard to light, color, time of year. Saxons? Saxons? Jes' cause the Phraggoi (pronounced "Frangoi") called the place after them, don't mean they ain't newcomers, mainly pirates slipping in the vacuum just after the Romans withdrew. I mean, don't the Greeks in the boonies still call all other Europeans FRANKS? Save the Wales und alle dat, hehe.
borsy
Beautiful!!
clifftoppler
The trees dip in worship. I've been there, of course, but do not remember it as this impressive. You've taken time to understand and to capture the atmosphere. Great!
cynlee
i really do like the compo.. of such significance, the rocks set off by the lacey curtains of tree limbs :]
ModestyB
Lovley shot :)