Historic Graffiti Project

Historic graffiti is exactly as it sounds; anything that has been etched or left a mark, from any time period, on or at a site, structure, or object.

This can include things such as:

• Wartime graffiti at military sites
• Symbols, shapes, or markings
• Intentional candle or poker burn marks
• Historic 'tourist' graffiti at sites
• Carvings in stone, wood, or other materials

Some of the symbols may even be apotropaic - meaning that they are protective, or ward off harmful magic. We'd love to understand more about the changes in belief around protective symbols over time.

Also, you can find concealed objects that are thought to serve the same protective purpose. These include things such as shoes or mummified animals, or objects known as 'witch bottles'. These objects can be found in entryways, such as doors, windows, or fireplaces. They may also be found in walls, ceilings, or under the floor!

If you would like to know more about the history of graffiti, its treatment in a heritage context and what is considered ‘historic’ graffiti, there is a wealth of information in the Historic England guidance document, which is available here, and in the links section on the side.

We’d like to record everything & be able to showcase them on our online mapping site.

Our aim is to give people the opportunity to explore & see this graffiti (where possible), and ensure that they're recorded for future generations.

If you have found any graffiti, symbols, or objects, please add them to our map below!