The Scottish Stone of Scone will play an important role next year with the coronation of King Charles III. It will be placed under the coronation chair of the newly crowned king as has been done for countless generations.
What Is It?
The Stone of Scone is an ancient Scottish stone which was used to signify the Scottish monarchy whenever a new King of Queen was crowned.
In 1296, when King Edward I claimed the English throne, he stole the Stone of Scone and relocated it from Scotland to Westminster Abbey in London. It remained there until 1996 when it was officially returned to Scotland as the English and Scottish crowns have since remained merged.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES), the agency which overseas the upkeep of Edinburgh Castle, has announced the stone will only be removed from Scotland for the coronation.
Notably, the stone was stolen once in 1950 by Glasgow University students. It took four months to recover, but was eventually returned to Westminster Abby.
What is It Made From?
The stone itself consists of a buffed sandstone.
Where Does It Come From?
Legend holds that the stone may have come from Egypt. Other stories claim it came from Ireland and spent a majority of its time in Argyall.
No one has been able to prove with certainty where it originates from.
Where Will It Go After the Coronation?
The Scottish First Minster announced plans for the stone to be settled in the abby of Perth where the stone was first installed in 841 AD.