In 1998 a mysterious marked stone, sometimes called the Arthur Stone, was found in Cornwall, UK, at Tintagel Castle during an archaeological excavation. This treasured find received lots of attention because of its inscription and the suggestion that the stone might provide evidence for the legendary King Arthur.
The stone dated confidently to the sixth century and was carved with the letters: PATER COLIAVIFICIT ARTOGNOU COLI FICIT. This can be translated to: Artognou, father of a descendant of Coll, has made this. (without duplicate ColiFicit)
The name Artognou has been suggested to be a variate for the name Arthur, and because the stone dates to the time period for which King Arthur is believed to have lived, and because Tintagel Castle is where it’s been claimed, by Geoffry of Monmouth in his romantic tale about King Arthur, that Arthur was conceived, much enthusiasm surrounds the discovery. What if it is thee King Arthur who wrote on the stone?
While there is no way to know for sure, with such a brief message, some are holding on to the possibility. Obviously, it is great for tourism. King Arthur has left his mark on the area, whether in stone or not.
What the stone does offer as fact, however, along with other artifacts being discovered, is that Tintagel was a site of royal significance. It shows its inhabitants were able to read and write, and had connections outside the area. Something not proven before.
While other markings on the stone don’t receive as much mention, they are just as interesting. The survival of writing from such an early age is rare and so any discoveries, with or without a link to King Arthur, are considered a treasure and provide clues to the culture of past times.
Seen on the right top corner of the stone are the letters A, X, and other marking thought to be representative of the Greek letter Omega. Together this could be a Christian symbol for The Alpha and the Omega.The Artognou Stone suggests a Christian influence was in the area as well.
This seemingly small find of a few letters, on a piece of Cornish roof slate, is certainly a found treasure, but yet continues to keep many of its secrets. If only stones could talk!
Best of luck with all that you seek! Always Treasure the Adventure!