'Witch marks' found in 17th-century English home
Archaeologists have uncovered some unusual carvings on the floorboards of Knole, a historic home in Kent, England.
These so-called "witch marks" were meant to protect the house's members from demonic possession. The Guardian notes that the markings date to a time when England was overcome with superstitious paranoia, thanks to the failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605. The plot, led by Guy Fawkes, included plans to assassinate King James I of England.
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