Glastonbury - Where King Arthur, the Archangel Michael, and a Wiccan Can Become Friends
October 28, 2010
 The medieval city of Glastonbury (www.glastonbury.co.uk) is awash with legend and religious symbolism. Close to its heart near the Market Cross, lies the majestic ruins of Glastonbury Abbey (www.glastonburyabbey.com), once one of the most powerful abbeys in the land, which was razed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1539. Joseph of Arimathea is reputed to have come here as a missionary in AD 63, and a thorn in the Abbot’s kitchen is said to derive from his wooden staff, which turned into a thorn bush.
To the east, topped by the ruins of St Michael’s church, stands the cone of Glastonbury Tor – variously said to be a portal to the fairy kingdom, King Arthur’s stronghold, or where the Holy Grail was kept. Through the ages, writers have speculated that this is the site of Avalon, King Arthur’s final resting place. Seen by many as a Mother Goddess symbol, the tor—a natural plug of sandstone on clay—has an undeniable geological charisma.
 After parking at the Somerset Rural life Museum, my husband and I walked past the garden surrounding the Chalice Spring. The chalice that Christ used at the Last Supper, the Holy Grail, is said lie beneath this spring. During the 18th century, pilgrims flocked to Glastonbury for the well’s healing powers. Even today, there’s a moment of silence at noon for world peace and healing. You can have a drink or take some of the precious water home (red from iron ore – said to be Jesus’ blood) for about $5 a bottle. We opted not to.
We made our way toward the Tor and made the steep climb to the 520 foot summit in order to enjoy the fabulous views over the Somerset Levels and the village of Glastonbury. But we were far from alone in our endeavor. The sight is populated with “New-Agers” – easily identified by the pungent scent of incense and body odor, and their “natural” clothing and sandals. Glastonbury is a magnet for “New Agers” and those seeking alternative lifestyles. Thousands flock here for the annual rock festival and for the summer solstice on Midsummer’s Day.
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