Dalya Alberge

A Warwick University architectural historian argues that markings commonly identified by English Heritage and Historic England as “witches’ marks” on historic English buildings are in fact stonemasons’ practice designs, such as daisy wheels used for teaching geometry. She maintains there is no evidence of mystical or protective intent, interpreting the symbols instead as training exercises or construction guides. English Heritage and Historic England acknowledge ongoing debate and welcome further research, while Alexander’s new book explores the functional purpose of these marks in medieval building practice.