Burial Chambers and Beyond: Connecting with the Ancestors in Cornwall

Written by lyn on Dec. 1, 2024, 10:55 a.m.

Cornwall’s ancient burial chambers, known as quoits, hold profound connections to the past. These megalithic structures, built thousands of years ago, were places of reverence and transition, marking the boundary between the living and the dead. For modern pagans, they offer an opportunity to connect with the ancestors and the energies of the land.

One of the most striking burial chambers in Cornwall is Trethevy Quoit, often called "The Giant’s House." Its towering presence evokes awe and curiosity, making it a perfect site for rituals of remembrance. By meditating within its shadow or leaving offerings of flowers, herbs, or small tokens, practitioners can honour the spirits of those who came before.

Another remarkable site is Chun Quoit, located on the wild expanses of West Penwith. Its remote location ensures a sense of peace and solitude, ideal for quiet reflection or ancestral work. Use the surrounding moorland to gather natural materials like stones or branches to create a ritual circle, grounding your practice in the very land your ancestors walked.

If you’re seeking a unique blend of myth and history, visit Lanyon Quoit, a dolmen said to have been large enough to accommodate a horse and rider beneath it before its partial collapse. Here, practitioners can focus on transformation, death, and rebirth—a cycle central to many pagan beliefs. Invoke these energies by performing rituals that honour endings and welcome new beginnings.

To connect with your ancestors, bring a symbolic item, such as a family heirloom or a written note, to leave as an offering. Use this as an opportunity to meditate on the wisdom they passed down and their continued presence in your life. Speaking aloud their names or simply expressing gratitude for their sacrifices can be a powerful practice.

As always, respect these sacred sites. They are fragile relics of a time long past and deserve careful treatment. By treading lightly and leaving no trace, you ensure their continued ability to inspire and empower those who seek their mysteries.

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