Scotlands History

Aberlemno Pictish cross-slab

Beside the Forfar to Brechin road stands a group of three Pictish symbol stones. Symbols carved in the stones include: the serpent, crescent and v-rod, double disc and z-rod, and mirror and comb.

The best preserved is a Pictish Cross-Slab in Aberlemno Kirkyard, sculpted with a Celtic Cross in relief and a background of intertwined beasts.

The reverse of the Cross-Slab has a panel showing a battle scene with long-haired Pictish warriors fighting Northumbrians wearing helmets with nose guards. There are warriors and horsemen bearing spears, swords and shields, and a dying Northumbrian being pecked by a raven. This is thought to portray the Battle of Dunnichen which took place only 10 km from Aberlemno.

  • A photograph of a pictish stone carved with a battle scene

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