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Symbolism in Rosslyn Chapel

The REAL Mysteries Surrounding William Sinclair's Chapel

Jun 15, 2008 Lisa Cucciniello

Instantly famous from the release of "The da Vinci Code," many of Rosslyn Chapel's mysteries were lost in literary translation. This article focuses on symbolic carvings.

Though the 2003 release of The da Vinci Code seems to have given Rosslyn Chapel instant fame, Grail seekers often overlook the real mysteries that are embedded in this centuries old landmark. The chapel was carefully constructed by expert stonemasons who intricately designed each section. While Code followers often rush to find the alleged mysteries hidden, the real beauty and mystique are often overlooked.

Rosslyn Chapel’s entire structure is elaborately carved with complex detail. From the vaulted ceilings to the outside trim, every section of the chapel was executed with great precision of master craftsmen. The many carvings of angels seem to evoke questions from observers, as they are much unlike the positions of common angels depicted, for example, one angel is upside down while another is in almost a squatting position. These are often collectively referred to as ‘Masonic Angels’ in that they reflect the work of stone masons though seem to baffle viewers at the same time.

Other carvings that evoke a great deal of obscurity are the ‘Green Man’ carvings, images that are thought to perhaps relate to the Celtic fertility god.www.rosslyntemplars.org.uk/the_green_man.htm. What was commissioned to be a Catholic place of worship heavily incorporates some very non-Christian images such as the ‘Masonic Angels’ and Green Men, again housing a great deal of ambiguity within the walls of this dwelling.

One of the most mysterious carvings is that which connects the Apprentice Pillar to the stairs leading to the sacristy below that bears the Latin inscription, Forte est vinum, Fortior est Rex, Fortioressunt mulieres: Super omnia vincint veritas, “Wine is strong, a King is stronger, women are stronger still but truth conquers all. Many interpretations have been offered regarding this quote, an inclusion taken from the Chapter 3 in Esdras of Apocrypha.www.rosslyntemplars.org.uk/esdras_3.htm Following the Protestant Reformation, Apocrypha was no longer included in Protestant Bibles; therefore this carving seems to induce many questions as to its meaning, since its roots were dropped from a major sect of Christianity’s holy book. Perhaps more scholarly and less dramatic than The da Vinci Code, these carvings offer many visitors a tour they will never forget.

Rosslyn Chapel has become a tourist destination since the 2003 release of The da Vinci Code. Yet the ambiguity of the chapel has always existed. Many have asked for years, what the carvings symbolize and what they sayings mean. Though legends of the Holy Grail might seem like fun and games, Rosslyn Chapel offers a great deal of history for anyone seeking an adventure.

The copyright of the article Symbolism in Rosslyn Chapel in UK/Irish History is owned by Lisa Cucciniello. Permission to republish Symbolism in Rosslyn Chapel in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.