Quarry Marks

Quarry marks are the signatures carved into worked stones, most likely with the purpose of allowing each quarryman to mark their work, keep track of the number of carved stones, and receive the agreed-upon payment for it.
There are different types of symbols, which can be categorized into three groups.

The first, the most common and varied, consists of geometric figures, angles, curves, circles, etc., used by the builders who placed the stones (which are the most predominant in this building).
The second group consists of alphabetical characters, simple or double letters (initials of the names of those who worked on that stone).
The third group includes symbols with symbolic or religious meanings.

In this castle, there are 42 lapidary signs cataloged, with position and religious marks predominating. There is also a mason's signature on the exterior of the Tower of Homage, repeated twice. Most of these marks can be found on the ashlars of the building, both inside and outside of it.
If you'd like, you can have some fun searching for all the registered marks through our game "The Symbol Seeker."