Dragons, Mermaids and King Arthur’s Excalibur Compass
I recently joined host Christopher Jordan during the second half of Curious Realm for an in-depth conversation about Royston Cave and the research presented in my latest book, The Curse of Oak Island’s Templar Cave: Royston.
Royston Cave remains one of England’s most intriguing historical mysteries. Its walls are filled with carvings of saints, kings, queens, knights, swords, and religious figures, yet the identities of those responsible for creating the cave have never been conclusively established.
During the program, Christopher and I explored the evidence that guided the chronology I propose for the cave’s construction and the creation of its carvings. We also examined some of the historical personalities and religious traditions represented within this extraordinary underground chamber. And yes, the Knights Templar were very much a part of the conversation.
Highlights from our discussion include:
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Eleanor of Aquitaine: I discuss my identification of the crowned female carving as Eleanor, interpreted through the medieval legend of Melusine. Using my multi-disciplinary background in historic clothing and customs, I’ve been able to identify when the carving schedual began in the early 13th century. Her connections to the House of Rochefoucauld, crusading history, and the Plantagenet dynasty provide crucial context for this mysterious figure.
Melusine Lady of the Lake -
The Excalibur Compass: We also discussed the two remarkable sword carvings within the cave. Their unusual positioning led to what I have termed the “Excalibur Compass,” one of the most important discoveries to emerge from my research. Their orientation offers a new means of investigating the cave’s purpose, chronology, and wider geographical connections.
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The Excalibur Compass re-imagined from the original carving by the author
The first half of the program features author and explorer Kathleen Anne Ball, who discusses her own fascinating investigations into the Knights Templar.
My sincere thanks to Christopher Jordan for another thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation. Royston Cave continues to reveal new possibilities, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share my research with the Curious Realm audience.
You can watch the complete program here: Watch Curious Realm on YouTube
To learn more about the evidence, carvings, and historical figures explored during the interview, please visit: The Curse of Oak Island’s Templar Cave: Royston
I hope you enjoy the conversation. Please feel free to share your thoughts and interpretations in the comments!
All my best on your own adventures!
Gretchen