Terris Novalis

After receiving countless emails to the Fabulous North inbox asking us why we aren't posting about 19th century surveyors instruments with weird feet, we have finally caved in. So here you go, it's Terris Novalis.

Perched up on a small rise near Consett they are two huge sculptures of an engineer's level (used for high level horizontal accuracy) and a theodolite (used to measure horizontal angles). Built out of stainless steel they are over 20 times the size of the regular instruments and are a reflection of the industry history of the region.

They are actually located on the original steelworks site and right next to the old Stanhope and Tyne Railway line (the oldest commercial railway line in Britain).

From a distance everything appears normal, until you take a closer look at the freaky feet of the sculptures. The level is propped up by the feet of a lion, cow and bird of prey, whereas the theodolite stands on a horse hoof, a human hand and the foot of a lizard or crocodile.

The feet are said to be inspired by - symbolic heraldry found on shields, coats of arms, plaques and items associated with land and ownership.

Terris Novalis translates to “in newly cultivated lands”.

If you are on your bike and fancy visiting nearby sites, then continue east on the C2C cycleway and you will find the Old Transformers (5km away) and Old King Coal (a further 13km onwards).