The Stone of Scone: The Legend and it’s Return to Scotland
The Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny, has woven its way through the annals of history with captivating legends and significant cultural significance. This oblong block of red sandstone, initially used for the coronations of Scottish monarchs and later for those of England, Great Britain, and the United Kingdom, carries tales of power, symbolism, and a remarkable journey across centuries.
My favourite part of the story is when 4 Scottish student stole back the stone from Westminster Abbey! The tale has even been made into a movie. Read on to get the whole picture.
A Tapestry of Legends
Before the Stone of Scone found its resting place at Scone Abbey in Scotland, various theories and legends surrounded its origins. One such tale traces its journey to Fergus, son of Erc, the first King of the Scots, who transported the Stone from Ireland to Argyll. According to a 15th-century chronicle, Fergus was crowned on the stone.
Some stories even associate the Stone of Scone with the Lia Fáil, an ancient stone used for inaugurating High Kings of Ireland at Tara. Other legends hark back to Biblical times, connecting the stone to Jacob's Pillar from Bethel, which found its way to Ireland through the prophet Jeremiah.
Seized by Edward I
Edward I's forces captured the Stone of Scone from Scone Abbey in 1296, marking a pivotal point in its history. This once-revered artifact became a part of the coronation rituals for English and British monarchs, serving as a tangible symbol of authority. Throughout the centuries, it was a witness to the rise and fall of kingdoms, political alliances, and changing dynasties.
The Daring Heist and Its Split Identity
However, the Stone's journey took an unexpected turn on Christmas Day 1950. Four Scottish students orchestrated a daring heist at Westminster Abbey, where the stone was then housed. In an attempt to bring the stone back to Scotland, it broke into two pieces during the removal process.
After a series of twists and turns, involving hiding, burying, and finally repairing the stone, it was left at Arbroath Abbey but when the police found the stone four months after it’s removal from England, it was returned to Westminster.
A Triumphant Return
The turning point for the Stone of Scone came in 1996. Amid discussions about Scottish cultural heritage, the British Government announced its decision to return the stone to Scotland. On 15 November 1996, a handover ceremony took place at the border, symbolizing the stone's journey home. It was transported to Edinburgh Castle, and on St Andrew's Day, 30 November 1996, a formal handover ceremony marked its arrival. Prince Andrew, Duke of York, representing Queen Elizabeth II, handed over the Royal Warrant to the Commissioners for the Regalia.
A New Chapter in Scottish History
Today, the Stone of Scone rests alongside the crown jewels of Scotland, the Honours of Scotland, in the Crown Room of Edinburgh Castle. It stands as a powerful symbol of Scotland's rich history, its enduring legacy, and the resilience of its people. The stone's journey encapsulates the stories of nations, the fervor of those who sought to safeguard their heritage, and the spirit of a people bound to their past as they forge a future.
The Stone of Scone, with its tales of monarchs and destiny, serves as a tangible link to a remarkable past and a testament to the enduring strength of Scotland's cultural heritage.
You can hear about this tale and visit Scone Palace where a replica of the stone resides on one of our tours that leaves Edinburgh. Check that out here.
