Glastonbury Tor
Glastonbury Tor, a mystical hill rising from the flatlands of Somerset, England, has captivated imaginations for centuries. Its distinctive conical shape, often shrouded in mist, seems to pierce the very fabric of reality. And no legend entwines it more than that of King Arthur, the once and future king of British myth.
The Isle of Avalon—A Place of Healing and Enchantment: The Arthurian legend associates Glastonbury Tor with the mythical Isle of Avalon, a place of healing and enchantment. According to some versions of the story, Arthur was mortally wounded at the Battle of Camlann and taken to Avalon to be healed by Morgan le Fay, his powerful sister or half-sister. Some tales even have him resting in Avalon, awaiting the call to return when Britain faces its greatest peril.
The Glastonbury Abbey "Discovery"—Fact or Fiction?: In 1190, monks at Glastonbury Abbey claimed to have unearthed King Arthur's tomb. They found a lead cross bearing the inscription "Here lies Arthur, famous king in Avalon." While the bones found alongside the cross were later reburied and their authenticity remains hotly debated, the discovery cemented Glastonbury's association with Arthurian legend.
Beyond the Grave—A Landscape Steeped in Myth: The Arthurian connection goes beyond the purported tomb. Chalice Well, a sacred spring at the foot of the Tor, is often linked to the Holy Grail. Legends claim Joseph of Arimathea, the biblical figure who entombed Jesus, brought the Grail to Glastonbury and hid it near the spring. Many Arthurian stories weave these elements together, painting Glastonbury as a mystical landscape infused with ancient magic and the promise of a mythical return.
A Realm of Mystery and Imagination: Whether or not King Arthur ever set foot on Glastonbury Tor, the hill's association with him is undeniable. The legends have woven themselves into the fabric of the place, creating an atmosphere of mystery and imagination that continues to inspire artists, writers, and travelers to this day.
So, if you ever find yourself in Somerset, take a moment to stand atop Glastonbury Tor. Gaze out at the rolling hills and breathe in the air that has been whispered upon by bards and whispered tales of a once and future king. You might just feel the magic yourself.
Arthurian Legend Summarised
The damp whispers of the low-lying ground conjure a Fata Morgana, a sorceress's mirage where the Tor shimmers into being beyond the veil of mist. This illusion, named for the Arthurian enchantress, is born from light bending through layers of air heated in their secrets.
The link between Glastonbury Tor and Arthurian legend can be traced back to at least the 12th century, with Geoffrey of Monmouth's "Historia Regum Britanniae" being one of the earliest sources.
The discovery of a lead cross in 1190 likely had political motivations, as Glastonbury Abbey was vying for increased prestige and land holdings.
The Arthurian legends associated with Glastonbury Tor have continued to evolve over time, with modern writers and artists reinterpreting them in new and creative ways.
Tours of Glastonbury Tor
Unwind in a chauffeured car, explore with a passionate guide, on a Tour of Glastonbury Tor. Combine your private tour with other places of King Arthur interest, and other iconic UK destinations.
More Information
Location: Glastonbury Tor is located in the Somerset town of Glastonbury, England, 23 miles (37 km) south of Bristol.
External website: National Trust - Glastonbury Tor
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