The Sanctuary Stone sits on Castle Street in the center of Liverpool. It’s thought to be one of the oldest artifacts related to the beginning of Liverpool.

The stone once marked the boundaries for the medieval markets that took place in the town for centuries. Three other similar stones may have also existed on High, Dale, and Water Streets. All would have been a few feet tall originally.

The origin of the name is unknown but one legend is that, within the marked perimeter, goods could be taken from stalls, as long as they were not carried beyond the boundary stones. If so, one could expect to be arrested if caught.  Unfortunately, even the local historical society finds this very dubious.

Just one stone remains not far from the Town Hall denoted by a small sign.