Expert Says 'Witches' Marks' Aren't What You Think

Centuries-old stone doodles at English churches and barns have nothing to do with battling witches, argues a leading historian. Jennifer Alexander of the University of Warwick says there is "absolutely no evidence" that so-called "witches' marks" or "ritual protection symbols" were used to ward off evil, pushing back against years of claims by English Heritage and Historic England, per the Guardian. Alexander contends that the circles and petal-like "daisy wheels" carved into medieval masonry are simple geometry exercises and training tools for apprentices learning to use compasses and straight edges on stone.

Other so-called "apotropaic" shapes, including W- and M-like designs, may be builders' ciphers for assembly or attribution, Alexander argues, based on years of research. Her new book, Stonemasons' Marks, recasts heavily publicized finds—such as those at Gainsborough Old Hall—as evidence of classrooms and workshops rather than supernatural anxiety. Both English Heritage and Historic England say they welcome the challenge and further research, even as Historic England notes that viewing such marks as symbols meant to protect against "witches and evil spirits" remains the prevailing interpretation.