glastonbury tor the site of the isle of avslon

The head of a wheel cross dating from the 10th or 11th century has been recovered. Several buildings were constructed on the summit during the Saxon and early medieval periods they have been interpreted as an early church and monks' hermitage. Artefacts from human visitation have been found, dating from the Iron Age to Roman eras. The slopes of the hill are terraced, but the method by which they were formed remains unexplained.Īrchaeological excavations during the 20th century sought to clarify the background of the monument and church, but some aspects of their history remain unexplained. It was formed when surrounding softer deposits were eroded, leaving the hard cap of sandstone exposed. It's a strange presence in an otherwise pan-flat landscape, and in ancient times (when the area around Glastonbury was covered by water for much of the year), the tor would indeed have appeared as an island, wreathed in mists and cut off by rivers, marshes and bogs.The conical hill of clay and Blue Lias rises from the Somerset Levels. It's easy to see why the tor has inspired so many myths. Others believe that the tor marks an ancient mystical node where invisible lines of energy, known as ley lines, converge. A more famous legend identifies the tor as the mythic Isle of Avalon, where King Arthur was taken after being mortally wounded in battle, and where Britain's 'once and future king' sleeps until his country calls again. According to Celtic legend, it is the home of Arawn or Gwyn ap Nudd, king of the underworld and lord of the faeries. The tor is the focal point for a wealth of local lore. Whatever the truth, one thing's for certain – watching the sunrise from the top of the tor is an experience you won't forget in a hurry.

This hill was an important pagan site and is now surrounded by various myths and legends. Topped by the ruined medieval Chapel of St Michael, the iconic hump of Glastonbury Tor is visible for miles around, and provides Somerset with one of its most unmistakable landmarks.

Glastonbury tor the site of the isle of avslon