Cerne Abbas Giant, Cerne Abbas, Dorset

The bold and anatomically impressive turf-cut hill figure on Giant Hill has prompted considerable debate over its origins, with little documentary evidence in existence before the mid 16th century. A further layer of mystery was added in the 1980s when a resistivity survey for Arthur C Clarke's Mysterious World television programme revealed anomalies which suggested a skin or cloak draped across the figure's left hand. The small enclosure above the figure is Roman.

Location

Dorset Cerne Abbas

Period

Prehistoric (to AD42)

Tags

chalk art roman fort earthwork archaeology remains aerial view Prehistoric (to AD42)