Stumbling upon something unexpected in the bathroom usually doesn’t spark joy, but for a couple in Lincoln, their discovery was nothing short of astonishing. What they uncovered was a hidden piece of history dating back 700 years, connecting their home to the rich heritage and legendary tales surrounding Lincoln Cathedral.
A Medieval Relic Revealed
Tracy and Rory Vorster from Lincoln were left bewildered when they stumbled upon what appears to be a medieval gargoyle hidden behind a secret trapdoor in their bathroom. The Lincoln Civil Trust suggests that this intricately carved face might have once been part of a sophisticated drainage system or an early urinal from the 14th century.
The Discovery Unfolds
The remarkable find was made by Mr. Vorster while he was cleaning the bathroom one Sunday. “I was in shock,” he recalled. “I called out to my wife, saying, ‘You won’t believe what I’ve found.’” Upon removing a wooden panel, the couple was greeted by a large stone slab featuring an unusual carved face. Interestingly, this face bears a striking resemblance to the ‘Lincoln Imp,’ a well-known carving on Lincoln Cathedral, which is just a stone’s throw from their home.
The Tale of the Lincoln Imp
According to local legend, two imps were causing chaos on the roof of Lincoln Cathedral until one was turned to stone by an angel. The couple’s home, originally built by the Cathedral’s college of priests in the 13th century, still retains elements of its ancient architecture, despite parts of it being demolished during the English Civil War.
Reflecting on the discovery, Mrs. Vorster said, “The exterior of the house is already steeped in history, but to find something hidden inside is truly incredible.”
The Possibility of Further Discoveries
The Vorsters now believe that their home might hold more medieval treasures. “The walls of the house seem to have hollow sections, so we immediately wondered if there could be more hidden artifacts,” Mr. Vorster explained. “In fact, we’re almost certain there are.”
The Rich Archaeological Heritage of Lincoln Cathedral
This discovery adds to the numerous significant finds that have been unearthed in and around Lincoln Cathedral over the years. Archaeologists have even studied ancient graffiti etched onto the cathedral walls to gain insight into the lives of its former inhabitants. This extensive research has uncovered everything from musical notations and sketches to prayers and curses.
Buried Treasures Beneath the Cathedral
Lincoln Cathedral is also the final resting place of many, with graves dating back to the 12th century. In 2020, researchers successfully reconstructed the face of a clergyman who was interred at the cathedral 900 years ago. Analysis of his remains revealed that he was a man approximately 169cm tall, who died between the ages of 35 and 45.
Conclusion
The discovery of a medieval gargoyle hidden above a bathroom in Lincoln not only underscores the area’s rich historical legacy but also hints at the potential for more fascinating finds. For the Vorsters, their home has transformed into a gateway to the past, revealing secrets that have been concealed for centuries. The enduring charm of Lincoln Cathedral continues to intrigue both locals and historians alike, offering a window into a past filled with legends, artifacts, and untold stories.
