Imagine a place where myth and history intertwine, where the echoes of legends still resonate. That place is ‘Merlin’s Mound,’ and it’s about to undergo a remarkable transformation! This ancient monument, rumored to house the remains of the legendary wizard Merlin, is set to be restored, promising a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Located within the grounds of Marlborough College, the Marlborough Mound (also known as Merlin’s Mount) is more than just a pile of earth; it’s a testament to human history. The college’s plans to remove 20th-century structures built into its side have been approved by Wiltshire Council. This includes demolishing a carpentry workshop, toilets, a plant room, and a water meter and pump. The goal? To reveal the mound’s true form and create a more visually appealing setting.
The plans also suggest that the restoration could uncover traces of medieval and post-medieval waterways. And this is the part most people miss: the mound itself is incredibly old, dating back approximately 4,000 years. Standing at an impressive 62ft (19m) tall, it’s second only to nearby Silbury Hill in terms of height for such a monument.
Adding another layer to the story, William the Conqueror ordered a castle to be built on the mound after the Norman Conquest. Local lore further enriches the narrative, claiming that Merlin is buried there, which gave the town its motto: “‘ubi nunc sapientis ossa Merlini” or “where now are the bones of the wise Merlin”.
In the 1980s, a teacher at the boarding school, where notable figures like Catherine, Princess of Wales, and comedian Jack Whitehall were educated, oversaw the renovation of an 18th-century shell grotto, which had been carved into the side of the hill. The Marlborough Mound Trust was established in 2000 to conserve and restore the monument. A recent archaeological assessment in 2024 described the mound as “nationally important.” While it’s unlikely that anything archaeologically significant will be found under the buildings, their removal will allow archaeologists to investigate a cross-section of the mound.
But here’s where it gets controversial… The mound isn’t open to the public, except for an annual open day held each summer, which requires tickets.
What do you think? Does the preservation of historical sites like Merlin’s Mound resonate with you? Are you curious about what the restoration might reveal? Share your thoughts in the comments below!