Carved in the 8th century, this magnificent rock is named after the coastal village of Ulbster, south of Wick, where it was unearthed in 1770 in the graveyard at St. Martin’s Chapel. A few decades after its discovery, the stone was moved to the top of an artificial mound in front of Thurso Castle. There it was during the 19th century that the stone was defaced, with an inscription in Gothic script being carved into its side.

The Ulbster Stone is said to bear more symbols on it than any other Pictish monument. Symbols such as the crescent and V-rod, a double-disc, a paired crescent, a step, and a wide variety of animals. Among them a fish, a hippocamp (mythical Sea horse with a fish-tail), a lion, a serpent and the so called Pictish Beast.

The most notable symbols however are the two great Latin crosses that dominate both of its two sides, each adorned with lavish, elaborate patterns.

As with all Pictish carvings, the true meaning behind the Ulbster stone and its many symbols are unlikely to ever be decisively confirmed. But the great amount of unique symbols provides a wealth of insight into Pictish culture and opens the door to many valuable interpretations.

Location: North Coast Visitor Centre, High St, Thurso KW14 8AJ

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