The mystery of when, how and – perhaps most importantly – why a colossal naked figure was carved into a dizzyingly steep hill in the English West Country has been a source of wonder and intrigue for centuries.
Future generations may come closer to solving the riddle of the Cern Giant after the National Trust stepped in to buy 340 acres of land around the 55-metre (180 ft) giant.
It is hoped the planned purchase will pave the way for more archaeological investigation around Britain’s largest chalk hill figure, which looms over the rolling Dorset landscape.
It will also mean that more work can be done to protect the flora and fauna on the hill, including the rare Duke of Burgundy butterfly. And the conservation charity hopes the purchase will give people better access to the figure, as well as more scope for exploration and play.
The Trust has exchanged contacts for the land and it plans to use money from its own funds, grants and bequests to cover the £2.2 million of the expected price.
On Wednesday it launched a fundraising appeal to try to raise an additional £300,000 for the purchase. It is encouraging people to donate, by offering some a chance to join the giant’s rewatching next year or to receive a “Cheeky Giant” pin badge with an imagined view of the figure from behind.
The trust said the acquisition will help preserve the legacy of the legacy company forever.
Archaeologist Steve Timms said: “The acquisition will provide the opportunity for archaeological research and investigation at a landscape scale. This will not only help us manage the land in the most appropriate way but will also answer questions about the evolution of settlement and ritual activity in the area over many millennia.”
Several theories have surrounded the giant’s identity and origins, including possibly an ancient symbol of spirituality, a likeness to Hercules, or a mockery of Oliver Cromwell.
In 2021, National Trust archaeologists concluded that the mausoleum was probably constructed in the late Saxon period.
The giant has other nationally important monuments including trendels – earthworks whose date and purpose are unknown – and a Bronze Age burial mound.
The giant building was given to the National Trust in 1920, but there were concerns earlier this year when the land surrounding the figure was put on the market. People living nearby and right of way campaigners expressed concerns that the location could be developed or access to the hill could be lost.
Hannah Jefferson, general manager of West Dorset and Cranbourne Chase, said: “The land is extraordinary. By protecting the area around the mammoth, we can restore a fully functioning ecosystem that supports species at risk and allows wildlife to thrive. There is also potential for new opportunities for walk and play, creativity and interpretation.”
The Trust plans to connect parcels of land around the vast land to create the conditions necessary for the Duke of Burgundy butterfly and other flora and fauna to survive. The mountainous terrain is also an important habitat for orchids and the hazel glove fungus, which is normally only found in temperate rainforests in the west.
Michael Clarke, a field ranger, said: “If we are serious about tackling climate change and helping wildlife adapt, we need landscapes that are bigger, better connected and more resilient. The Duke of Burgundy butterfly is a perfect example. It has very specific needs, it only thrives in tall, moist grass and lays its eggs on certain plants.
“Its breeding conditions are so difficult that attempts can easily fail. That’s why it’s essential to give this butterfly room to expand into healthy, connected areas, reducing the risk of inbreeding and giving it a fighting chance to survive.”
Actor, broadcaster and comedian Stephen Fry has supported the appeal, as has Countryfile presenter Sean Fletcher, saying: “When you stand on Giant Hill and look out over this landscape, you feel the weight of history and the wonder of nature all at once.”
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