Description

Book Synopsis
In churches and cathedrals across Britain, tucked away among ordinary items such as pews, screens and pulpits, sit a plethora of fascinating and unexpected objects. From dragon-slaying spears and the ribs of monstrous cows, to pagan altars, reindeer horns and mummified skulls, these curiosities have intrigued generations of visitors. In this captivating history, David Castleton explores this fascinating world of lepers’ squints, pancake bells, virgin garlands and sanctuary knockers, and unravels the tales, legends and folkloric ceremonies that lay behind these charming and often deeply unusual artefacts.

Trade Review
A valuable and fascinating read. * The Folklore Podcast *

Table of Contents
Introduction Standing Stones, Runes and Pagan Altars Legendary Skulls, Strange Remains and Weird Repositories Giants' Graves, Odd Epitaphs and Resurrection Men Mysterious Crypts, Secret Tunnels and Macabre Effigies Holy Wells, Sacred Eels and Saints' Skulls Odd Artefacts and Strange Ceremonies An Emporium of Oddities Further Reading Index

Church Curiosities

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    A Paperback / softback by David Castleton

    £9.99

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    Order before 4pm tomorrow for delivery by Wed 28 Oct 2026.

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      Book details

      Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
      Published 25 March 2021
      ISBN-13 9781784424442
      978-1784424442
      ISBN-10 1784424447
      Also in:
      History Christianity History of religion

      Description

      Book Synopsis
      In churches and cathedrals across Britain, tucked away among ordinary items such as pews, screens and pulpits, sit a plethora of fascinating and unexpected objects. From dragon-slaying spears and the ribs of monstrous cows, to pagan altars, reindeer horns and mummified skulls, these curiosities have intrigued generations of visitors. In this captivating history, David Castleton explores this fascinating world of lepers’ squints, pancake bells, virgin garlands and sanctuary knockers, and unravels the tales, legends and folkloric ceremonies that lay behind these charming and often deeply unusual artefacts.

      Trade Review
      A valuable and fascinating read. * The Folklore Podcast *

      Table of Contents
      Introduction Standing Stones, Runes and Pagan Altars Legendary Skulls, Strange Remains and Weird Repositories Giants' Graves, Odd Epitaphs and Resurrection Men Mysterious Crypts, Secret Tunnels and Macabre Effigies Holy Wells, Sacred Eels and Saints' Skulls Odd Artefacts and Strange Ceremonies An Emporium of Oddities Further Reading Index

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