Where the markings are found on buildings, they are most usually located next to windows, doorways and fireplaces. These draughty locations were the most vulnerable as they could potentially be entrance points for demons, witches and evil spirits. The witch marks were etched into stone, plaster and woodwork.
Although many of the symbols associated with witch marks date back to much earlier times, the great majority are found in buildings dating from the medieval period through to the early nineteenth century. This was a time when belief in witchcraft and the supernatural was widespread and the use of magical symbols and ritual objects was part of everyday life.
Other forms of protection from evil were charms and ritual concealments. Often shoes, dolls, cats and witch bottles are found hidden away within buildings.
Witch marks continue to be used long after the fear of witchcraft and demons had died out. The markings continued to be thought of as symbols of protection but also of good luck. It may have also become a tradition to add such symbols to buildings.