The Wishing Stone

The Wishing Stone

The Wishing Stone is the capstone of a dolmen from the Neolithic period. Its five large supporting stones are today partly hidden by soil and piled-up fieldstones.

The name “The Wishing Stone” dates back to the early 1900s, when tuberculosis was a widespread and much-feared disease. At the nearby Skørping Sanatorium, there were few treatment options. Patients were therefore prescribed rest, fresh air and walks in nature.

Among the patients who were well enough to go for walks, a special tradition began. They would walk to the stone and throw a ten-øre coin underneath it while making a wish for recovery.

This tradition may be linked to the fact that, well into the 19th century, dolmens were often regarded as sacrificial stones or sacred altars – rather than as burial sites, as we understand them today.