International Gnomonic Bulletin - Gnomonica by Nicola Severino

Kratzer Sundial at Acton Court
During recent archaeological excavations at Acton Court, there were many exciting finds, thought
to be associated with King Henry’s visit. These included examples of the finest Venetian glass of its
time, Spanish ceramics, and some of the earliest clay tobacco pipes yet discovered. Dating from the
late 16th century, these support the view that Sir Walter Raleigh gave one of the first
demonstrations in England of the technique of smoking during a visit to Acton Court.
One item of particular importance was found by chance in a nettle patch next to the building. It is a
Cotswold limestone sundial designed by the royal horologist, Nicholas Kratzer, dated 1520.
Acton Court will reopen next summer from 16 June to 23 August
2004, not Mondays except Bank Holidays. Visits must be prebooked,
for more information telephone: 01454 228 224
Please visit our site later in the year for full details of the House and
our programme of Special Events.
Text and photo by http://www.actoncourt.com/location/index.html
Acton Court Latteridge Road Iron Acton Bristol BS37 9TJ
Internet curiosity
Sundial Japan - Circa 1000 BCE
NONAKADO STONE CIRCLE
This stone monument is the best known of its
kind in Japan. It sits in the Kazuno district of
Akita with another group of stones called the
Manza. On a 560 foot high terrace, the Nonakado
consists of two concentric settings of close-set
stones forming belts up to 33 feet wide. The
entire configuration is about 140 feet in diameter.
From the center lying towards the northwest
segment is the famous sun dial. It is made up of a
standing menhir at the center surrounded by long
stones placed on their sides and radiating out
from the center.
The sundial is about 36 feet in diameter and the standing menhir is 14 feet 9 inches high.
Excavations at this site has produced stone axes, stone scepters, pottery and other stones vessels.
The purpose of this stone circle is still debated, but giving the similar structures in the Negev
desert and other parts of the world its was probably used to connect the people with the heavens.
Other similar sites in Japan are rare, but the one in the district of Hokkaido is venerated and
offerings of sake are made to it.