After finishing class, the group journeyed into the countryside to a small (ha!) cromlech at Tinkinswood. I loved the sound of that straight off. Tinkinswood. I can practically see the elves, faeries, and goblins holding a Midsummer Eve's gala there just by hearing the name. And the spot didn't disappoint. While I didn't see any magical beasties, I did see the burial chamber tucked away in a pretty glade, and it was impressive to say the least. The top stone alone weighs approximately forty tons!
We then traveled to another cromlech at St. Lyfans. This one was not as big but its location was just as good. Settled at the top of a small hill, this burial chamber looks out over rolling pasture land. In fact, a small herd of cows were resting right next to the ancient structure.
What was interesting about both of these structures is that we can never really know why they were built. Were they for the community leaders? The community in general? Human sacrifices? Each is a probable answer. It was strange to think that underneath those massive stones were people's graves with hidden stories to tell.
From then on we took a turn for the Christian and traveled to Beaupre Castle. This castle was interesting because it is a bridge between the fortified castle home and the open, fanciful manor home of the upper classes. This is made apparent by the lovely Renaissance porch and its lack of basic medival fortifications such as a moat, arrow slits and murder holes. My favorite part of this castle was having to walk through three or four fields to get there. I got a fresh, renewed feeling of peace and joy as I tromped over the countryside.
Next, we drove to a really beautiful Cathedral in Llandaff, a district of Cardiff. Although it wasn't open for the public during the hour we spent there, I still really enjoyed it. We walked around the catheral and admired the detailed architecture, lovely gardens, and I particularly loved the graveyard. Is it morbid to enjoy visiting old cemetaries? This one was special because if you walked down a little dirt path you came to the overgrown sections where the graves were covered with wild grasses and flowers. It was simply beautiful. I'm also pretty sure I found the bridge under which lives a troll who taxes passing goats.
So there you have it - the Christians and the Pagans. My version of course. For those interested here is Dar Williams'. The video itself is lame but the song is a good one and worth listening to.
I love pagan lore. And fertility rites. And you.
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