Ancient Old Sarum stones found at Salisbury Cathedral
The decorative stones were in 'remarkable' condition
Last updated 7th Nov 2024
A number of ancient stones from Old Sarum have been found in the walls of Salisbury Cathedral.
The decorative stones were discovered during work on the Exeter Street wall of the Cathedral Close, which was 'leaning really badly'.
Clerk of Works at the Cathedral, Gary Price told us the team were stunned by the discovery.
He said: "To our amazement, some of the stones were from Old Sarum, but they had been turned around so the decorative part was on the inside of the wall that nobody could see. We just thought it was a flat square piece of ashlar and we were really surprised."
The team unearthed five or six stones, which are said to be in 'remarkable' condition.
"The condition was so remarkable that it looked like stone Mason had literally worked them yesterday," Gary said.
He added: "We think the stones that were put in in the wall were probably from the inside of the of Old Sarum and not from the outside because there would have obviously been more erosion on there."
The stones are now to be put on display for visitors to see.
Gary described it as a 'privilege' to uncover these historical artefacts.
He said: "It's a really great thing. I mean, who knows what other hidden gems are in and around the close and in the cathedral that are still waiting to be discovered?"