Mason marks date back to the 11th century when the Norman Masons arrived in Britain. These symbolic mason marks are imbedded in the ancient stone castles and cathedrals of England, France, Spain and other European countries.
There are thousands and thousands of markings across the centuries.
Mason marks are intriguing to stumble upon while sightseeing during a summer holiday or the like. Many of these stone structures are nearly 1,000 years old. They were built through grueling human effort using primitive tools. The magnitude of the accomplishment seems impossible to imagine when we stop and think about it.
While absorbing these mesmerizing markings on stone, in random spots along the walls, I can’t help but wonder what was running through their minds while they were leaving their “mark on the world.”
- Did they imagine that millions and millions of tourists would pause and take note of their symbol?
- That books would be written, weaving these markings into the plot?
- That curious minds would ponder about what kind of men these were, drawing the conclusion that the masons were truly extraordinary human beings with noble character, capable of significant struggle and sacrifice and perseverance.
- And that after years of difficult labor, they’d reach out and etch their unique symbol in the spot where they signed off on their work.
- How is it possible for such small, simple lines to represent so much?
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