The Stone of Scone, the stone upon which Scottish monarchs were traditionally crowned, is found on the site of the altar of Arbroath Abbey.
The Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny or the Coronation Stone, holds a significant place in the history and tradition of the British Isles, particularly Scotland.
It is a large block of sandstone, roughly 26 inches long, 16 inches wide, and 10.5 inches tall, weighing around 336 pounds (152 kg). Its origin is shrouded in myth and legend, with some accounts suggesting it was brought to Scotland from Ireland, while others claim it was used by the ancient Scottish kings for coronations.
The stone became closely associated with the monarchy of Scotland and later with that of England and the United Kingdom. For centuries, it was used in the coronation ceremonies of Scottish monarchs, traditionally placed under the coronation chair.
In 1296, the Stone of Scone was seized by King Edward I of England during his invasion of Scotland and was subsequently installed in Westminster Abbey in London. From then on, it was used in the coronation ceremonies of English and later British monarchs.
The stone remained in Westminster Abbey for several centuries, serving as a symbol of English dominance over Scotland. However, in 1950, a group of Scottish nationalists managed to steal the stone from the abbey, but it was soon recovered and returned to London.
In 1996, amidst growing calls for its return to Scotland, the British government decided to return the Stone of Scone to Scotland on the condition that it would be used for future coronations of British monarchs. It was finally returned to Scotland and is now kept in Edinburgh Castle when not in use.
The Stone of Scone continues to symbolize the historic ties between Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom, as well as the struggle for Scottish independence and identity.