What is it?

This ancient stone slab is over 1,000 years old and might have been the gravestone for St. Frideswide, the patron saint of Oxford. She was a healer and protector who founded a priory where Christ Church Cathedral now stands. The slab, discovered in 1869 during cathedral repairs, has interesting carvings: a face at the top with circles radiating from it. These patterns were likely made by early stone masons in the 10th or 11th century. St. Frideswide’s grave became an important pilgrimage site, attracting visitors from all over. Pilgrims came to honour her and seek healing or blessings, bringing wealth and attention to Oxford. The priory and other religious houses grew in importance, and over time, these religious institutions helped lay the foundations for Oxford University. Imagine walking by this grave marker hundreds of years ago—it’s like stepping into a piece of Oxford’s long history. It’s a reminder of how people honoured important figures, like saints, in the past. Who do you think St. Frideswide was, and why is she important? What do you think the carved face and shapes mean?

Where is it?

You can find it at Museum of Oxford

In Gallery 1

When can I see it?

You can see this item up until 21/12/2025

Can I collect it?

Yes! You can collect this item until 31/12/2025