Holed stones have always retained an air of mystery. Of all the stone remains found in Penwith, the rituals and customs associated with them persisted the longest. It was commonplace for these prehistoric stones to be used by local inhabitants, right up to the 19TH Century.

Men an Tol  SW427349 

The name Men a Tol is derived from the Cornish Language meaning stone of hole. There is a circular stone of about 12 foot circumference with a hole in its centre, large enough for a person to crawl through. In addition there are two standing stones. As with any ancient relic its function is lost in time. There are various speculations and stories.

Currently it is being argued whether the three stones are a site in themselves or just a part of a larger structure. Hypothesises have been forwarded that the stones are a part of a burial chamber or a stone circle.

Even in the eighteenth century the holed stone was believed to have curative powers, passing through the stone could cure rickets, tuberculosis and rheumatism.

The holed stone in conjunction with the other two standing stones may also have been used as an astronomical device for solar cycles, or a symbolic site in fertility rites.

Holed Stone Men an Tol

Holed and Two Standing Stones Men an Tol

Tregeseal Holed Stones  SW388326

In close proximity to Tregeseal Stone Circle (East) can be seen a row of three holed stones. Associated with this row are two other holed stones nearby. These two stones are composed of different igneous rock. Both have been broken but now are restored.

Row of 3 Holed Stones at Tregeseal

Holed Stone Close To Merry Maidens   432457

The holed stone is a gatepost located directly on the B3315, on the opposite side of the road to the Merry Maidens. It is unlikely to be prehistoric as the hole is too sharp, to be of this period it should be more splayed as displayed by stones at Tregeseal.

Sharper Non-Ancient Hole

Holed Stone Gate Post

Spayed Prehistoric Hole