Suenos Stone – Scotland - Atlas Obscura

Suenos Stone

A Tapestry in Stone 

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Not much is known about the Picts. They were a tribal group of people who existed along the eastern parts of Scotland during the late Iron Age and early medieval times.

They had no written language and subsequently all traces of their tongue are lost. The only things that give a clue to their lifestyle exists in the form of their ancient carved stones  discovered from time to time. 

Drivers passing through the northern side of Forres in Morayshire cant fail to notice the massive stone encased in glass at the side of Findhorn Road.  Suenos stone is the largest carved Pictish stone in Scotland. It stands at 6.5 metres/ 21 feet.

It was uncovered in the 1700s and erected near to where it was found. It is believed to be one of a pair as an ancient map of Forres from 1590 showed two pillars north of Forres. 

The front of this richly carved stone has a Celtic cross with intricate knotwork.  The other side depicts a massive battle in several horizontal scenes. It tells a story in each panel from mounted horsemen and foot soldiers heading into war, a battle in full force and warriors besieging a fort leaving a string of decapitated corpses in their wake.

Due to the fact little is known about the Picts it’s not entirely clear which battle this represents though it is thought to be a battle fought near Forres in 966 where King Duff tried to gain control of Morayshire only to be killed not long after. 

The name Sueno may have been mistakenly named after a Norse king called Swein also known as Forkbeard. 

It is an incredible piece of art and worthy of investigating if you are in the area.

Know Before You Go

There is a place for parking near the stone which is free to visit. There are information boards at the site. 

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