Summary
Extensive series of clearly defined medieval strip lynchets survive on both the north and south slopes of the hill.
Identification Images (0)
Monument Types
- STRIP LYNCHET (Medieval - 1066 AD to 1539 AD)
Description
Extensive series of clearly defined medieval strip lynchets survive on both the north and south slopes of the hill.
The precise date for the origin of this cultivation on the Tor is uncertain. The thirteenth century "Charter of St. Patrick" includes an indulgence to pilgrims of "100 days of Pardon to all who shall with pious intent cut down with axe and hatchet the wood on every side of the mount..." This passage, although no proof in itself for the Tor being wooded in the thirteenth century, implies a tradition for extensive woodland clearance from the sides of the Tor.
On the whole, particularly on the north side they are in good condition, unaffected by human pressure. On the south side they display the effects of cattle poaching and, in places, rabbit damage.
References
- SZN3210 - Unpublished document: C Hollinrake, N Hollinrake. 1997. An Archaeological Desk Top Study of Glastonbury Tor and its Environs.
- SZN3568 - Monograph: 1979. Archaeology in the National Trust. Glastonbury Tor, Somerset.
- SZN48197 - Unpublished document: Charles & Nancy Hollinrake. 2003. An Archaeological Watching Brief at Glastonbury Tor during entrances and pathways enhancement.
Other Statuses and References
- HER/SMR Reference (External): 23567
- National Monuments Record Reference: ST53NW8
Associated Events
- ENA3130 - Archaeological Intervention, Archaeological watching brief during footpath maintenance
- ENA3399 - Heritage Assessment,
- ENA3403 - Field Survey,
- ENA3404 - Field Survey,
- ENA3406 - Archaeological Intervention,
Associated Finds
None Recorded