The Cursus of Abbotsbury and the Giant’s Steps

Abbotsbury, a quaint village in West Dorset, England, lies nestled in the beautiful landscape filled with rolling hills and stunning coastlines. However, apart from its natural beauty, Abbotsbury is popularly known for its ancient folklore, particularly the one involving the Cursus and the Giant’s Steps. Situated nearby, the Abbotsbury ‘Cursus’ and the ‘Giant’s Steps’ are monumental earthworks believed to date back to the Neolithic period between 3400 to 2400 BC. Cursus is a Latin word describing a racecourse, a reference definitely to its elongated form. However, its true function still remains a mystery. The Giant’s Steps earthwork, on the other hand, is comprised of three circular barrows. It is the folklore associated with these landmarks that adds charm to their physical grandeur. Legend has it that these were actually created by a mighty giant who was either running across the landscape, hence forming the lengthy Cursus, or leaping around forming the circular Giant’s Steps barrows. When seen from above, the topography does appear as if carved by a colossal entity, either walking or jumping around. Folklore also narrates that anyone who dares to spend a night within these ancient structures will either die, go mad, or develop a poet’s spirit. Even to this day, the villagers love to share these tales and legends that have been passed down through generations. Such stories not only make Abbotsbury more fascinating but also provide a glimpse into the beliefs and imaginations of our historic past.