Ruth's Blog

When you think “Sarcophagus” you may think of Ancient Rome or Greece, or possibly Egypt, as that is where they originate from. However, similar coffins have been used all over the world, ranging from large stone oblong boxes to smaller wooden ones or sometimes even cases made of lead.

The stone coffin in Louth Museum, in particular, is of English origin from the fourteenth century.  It was discovered during excavations at Louth Park Abbey in 1873.  Louth Park Abbey, located about two miles east of Louth, was dissolved under King Henry VIII in 1536.

Our coffin is quite large compared to many of its kind and is thought to be from the burial of an abbot.  You can imagine the effort needed to make this coffin – no wonder stone coffins were used for only the most important people.  It contains a hole in the centre of the base, which was likely designed to let the fluids of its “inhabitant” flow out.

If you’ve never seen an old stone coffin close-up before, come on down to Louth Museum and take a look at it in all of its glory!