An historic landmark associated by folklore to the legendary king’s mystical advisor Merlin is set to experience revitalization.
Known as the Merlin’s Mount, this location is positioned inside the campus of the school.
Approval was requested to demolish recent buildings that had been constructed into the side of the hill.
Local authorities have now endorsed the removal of a carpentry workshop, toilets, a plant room, and a water meter and pump.
According to the proposals, there is “strong likelihood” that traces of ancient aquatic systems will be found during the work.
The school assert that the changes will provide a more “visually pleasing” environment for the mound.
Constructed 4,000 years ago, the structure measures 62 feet tall, making it exceeded only by the close Silbury monument in regarding elevation for such sites.
Subsequent to the conquest by William, William the Conqueror directed a stronghold to be erected on the site.
Local legend suggests that the wizard the wise Merlin is buried inside the structure, inspiring the local motto: “ubi nunc sapientis ossa Merlini”.
In the 1980s decade, a educator at the boarding school oversaw the renovation of an 18th Century grotto that had been carved into the face of the mound.
The trust was created in the year 2000 to preserve and restore the mound.
An expert evaluation in 2024 classified the mound as “of national significance” and stated that while it is unlikely anything historically important would be uncovered under the buildings, removing them would permit experts to analyze a segment of the monument.
The monument is not open to the public, however an annual open day is organized each year, for which tickets are issued.
