In the early 17th century witchcraft hysteria had reached fever pitch. Symbols and markings under the floorboards of Knole, one of Britain’s most important historic houses, were discovered during an archaeological survey. The so-called witch marks, also known as apotropaic marks, are believed to have been scratched into the wood to protect King James I from witches. The word apotropaic comes from the Latin for a verse or hymn intended to avert the wrath of angry gods.
More: The Independent
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