Forres is home to the largest surviving Pictish Stone in Scotland, Suenos Stone. The pillar stands over 6 metres high and has intricate carvings on each of its four sides.
It is believed the stone dates back to the 9th century but was only given the name Suenos when it was unearthed in the 18th century. There are various theories about the story the stone depicts but as there is no inscription on the stone, nor documentation going back to the 9th century, it is left up to your own imagination as to which story may fit the carvings the best.
The stone is believed to have been carved and erected after a victorious battle regarding the sovereignty of Scotland. At some point during its life, the stone was possibly knocked down and buried by the shifting sands of the area. There is a possibility that this actually preserved the carvings and when it was unearthed in the 18th century it was erected close to or on the spot it had originally been placed. The Victorians surrounded the stone with iron railings and a cap made of lead sheeting. In the 1990’s, to prevent further erosion, the stone was encased in glass.
There is a plaque at the site with information relating to the the possible theories regarding the story the stone depicts.
Click here for more information.
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