Graffiti scrawled on the walls of the Tower of London dating back centuries have been deciphered for the first time by a group of historians researching the significant collections. The researchers, led by Dr Jamie Ingram, began studying the Salt Tower, a historic building that housed prisoners accused of serious crimes. The Salt Tower once imprisoned Hew Draper, an innkeeper from Bristol accused of sorcery, who carved astrological symbols in his cell. The researchers have identified 354 examples of graffiti in the tower, shedding new light on the historical significance of the building.
The Tower of London, a high profile fortress, has held many infamous prisoners, including the two princes, Edward V and Richard Duke of York, Anne Boleyn, her daughter Princess Elizabeth, and Guy Fawkes. Using advanced technology such as laser scanning and X-ray analysis, the research team is deciphering the inscriptions on the walls of the tower. One of the inscriptions, written by a woman, is a groundbreaking discovery in their research. This rare female voice provides new insights into the history of the tower and its prisoners, as women are not typically represented in the physical records of the tower’s inhabitants.
The research team is utilizing innovative methods such as raking light to examine the graffiti in detail, allowing them to uncover hidden messages and historical insights. The graffiti not only reveals the presence of famous prisoners but also sheds light on the lives of lesser-known individuals who were incarcerated in the tower. By studying the inscriptions, the researchers are piecing together the stories of past inhabitants and gaining a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the Tower of London.
Ingram’s research project is described as ‘exciting’ due to the new revelations and discoveries made through the study of the graffiti. The project aims to explore the historical context of the Tower of London and its connection to important events and figures throughout history. By analyzing the inscriptions and deciphering their meanings, the researchers are uncovering valuable information about the lives, beliefs, and experiences of those who were imprisoned in the tower, providing a new perspective on its complex history.
The discovery of the graffiti in the Tower of London highlights the importance of preserving historical sites and artifacts for future generations. The insights gained from studying the inscriptions on the walls of the tower add to our understanding of the people and events that shaped its history. Through innovative research methods and advanced technology, the research team is able to unlock the secrets hidden within the ancient walls of the tower, bringing to light new stories and perspectives that contribute to our knowledge of this iconic landmark.
