Wales is experiencing what could be the highest number of reported crimes involving damage and vandalism at ancient heritage sites this year, according to Cadw, the organization responsible for preserving and protecting Welsh historical monuments. The alarming increase appears to be linked to a troubling social media trend that encourages people to leave marks at sacred locations.
The Bryn Celli Ddu passage tomb on Anglesey, one of Wales' most renowned Neolithic sites dating back 5,000 years, has become a recent victim of this destructive behavior. The ancient monument has suffered significant damage, with graffiti appearing throughout its internal chamber stones. More than 40 different marks have been painted inside the sacred passage and tomb area, including fingerprints, handprints, diamond shapes, and circles.
Sean Parry, a local tattoo artist who has witnessed this trend firsthand, explained that people have been "fingerpainting on sacred sites" and then sharing images of their actions on social media platforms. These individuals are reportedly promoting their destructive behavior as a form of "spiritual practice," using social media to spread and encourage others to follow suit.
"We have no evidence that these monuments were ever decorated like this, and even if they were, it is not a place to leave our marks on them in the modern day," Parry stated, emphasizing the inappropriate nature of this trend. His comments highlight the fundamental misunderstanding some people have about the historical and cultural significance of these ancient sites.
The damage to Bryn Celli Ddu represents more than just vandalism; it's the destruction of irreplaceable historical artifacts that have survived for millennia. These Neolithic sites serve as crucial links to understanding ancient Welsh civilization and prehistoric human behavior. The unauthorized markings not only damage the physical structure but also compromise the archaeological integrity of these monuments for future research and preservation efforts.
