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The Kilmartin Stones are a collection of 79 ancient graveslabs at NR8398 : Kilmartin Parish Church. The earliest stones date back to the thirteenth or fourteenth centuries, with the most recent ones dated 1707 and 1712.

Originally, the stones would have been laid flat on the ground to cover a grave. After the Reformation, however, many of the stones were moved, and in 1956 they were moved inside a shelter to protect them from the weather. The symbolism of the motifs carved onto the slabs is the subject of much discussion and speculation. Many are marked by figures of warriors in contemporary dress with spears and swords; some alone, others with figures of fantastic animals, foliage and interlace patterns. Other motifs include crosses, animals and shears; a comb appears with shears on one stone. None are inscribed, so the identities of the persons commemorated are unknown. They can, however, be taken to be the monuments of the local landowning or minor noble class in late medieval times. The swords shown on many of the stones refer to warrior (or, more broadly, social) status.

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Created: Tue, 1 Apr 2014, Updated: Tue, 1 Apr 2014