Historic graffiti on show at Alnwick church as part of Heritage Open Days
People have been leaving their mark on Alnwick for generations – sometimes quite literally.
During Heritage Open Days, visitors to St Michael’s Church can discover why it has been named as one of England’s finest churches, and view some of the historic graffiti taken from the tower roof.
The graffiti provide a different way of looking at one of Alnwick’s best-known historic buildings – not simply through its architecture, but through traces left by the people who used it.
When the tower of St Michael’s was being repaired, hundreds of 18th and 19th century examples of graffiti depicting ships, footprints, names and initials were found on the roof.
Jean Darby, from St Michael’s, said: “We think the ships were probably there because from the top of the tower you could see out to the sea. They’re really quite detailed, we have the anchor and the pennants, and on one of them there is actually a Scottish flag.
"There’s a gentleman in his full regalia which tells us something of the fashion of the time.
"The graffiti artists should not have caused the vandalism, but it’s proved wonderful for us because interest in local history involves the whole community.”
Visitors will also be able to take pre-booked tower tours during Heritage Open Days.
St Michael’s is one of a range of Alnwick buildings, workplaces and community venues taking part in Heritage Open Days, which runs from 13–19 September, with the main open day on Saturday 19 September.
Events are free, although some activities require advance booking.
Full opening times and booking information are available through the Heritage Open Days website.