Ampulla

Fragment of an ampulla from an unknown shrine. It is decorated with a shield inside a roundel. Star-like, cross-hatched points radiate from the roundel. There is one handle remaining. Ampullae were used to contain water that been associated with saintly relics – sometimes relics were dipped into the water to transfer some of their power. This water was thought to have powerful properties such as the ability to cure diseases and so ampullae were popular pilgrim souvenirs. Ampullae could be worn on string round the neck or hung up at home to be used when needed.