Introduction

A simple map of Porthcurno and the surrounding area.

"Leaving this quiet and interesting spot [St Levan Churchyard] we may either descend again to the coast, passing Pedn-men-an-mere, the Carracks, "rocks" off the headland, and Meinek, "stony" Point, an extremely pleasant walk, and free from furze or bog, or follow the pathway fields from the church, noticing a cross by the way, through Rospletha Farm, and down over the hill to Porthkernou, commonly called Porcurnow.

The beach here is entirely of sand composed of comminuted shells of the most delicate and beautiful structure, and is left so smooth by the waves, that it is almost a pity to make footprints there. Although a vast portion of the sand consists of broken pieces, yet a great variety of shells in a perfect state may be collected, belonging to species which are highly prized by concholigists for their rarity.

Observe how the waves come in, with the wind blowing back their crests of foam, like streaming banners of an army. What splendid curves they form, what a beautiful transparent emerald is seen as they ride, and how the strand trembles as they fall . . . . Here the works of nature are on their grandest scale. The rock scenery surrounding the cove cannot be surpassed; to the east, stretching far out, is Treryn Castle, a noble and wonderful pile.

Taken from the book ‘A Week at the Land’s End’ by J T Blight, 1876

This was written just six years after the founding of the telegraph station at Porthcurno. Happily, there is much here that we can still recognise and Porthcurno remains a uniquely beautiful place. Beyond the natural splendour of the rocks and coves, there is a wealth of ancient and industrial history to be discovered in the local landscape.
This trail provides a brief introduction to the archaeology of Porthcurno.


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