The relic's purpose? Its design? Whatever the intent, it is now a mere curiosity that breaks up the horizon.

Stony Silence

Activated abilities of artifacts can't be activated.

Mystery Booster 2

Modern Masters 2017

Let moss grow over gargoyles
—Gavony saying meaning "forget painful memories"

Innistrad

Activated abilities contain a colon. They're generally written "[Cost]: [Effect]." Some keyword abilities, such as equip, are activated abilities and will have colons in their reminder text.

No abilities of artifacts can be activated, including mana abilities.

Stony Silence's ability affects only artifacts on the battlefield. Activated abilities that work in other zones (such as cycling) can still be activated. Triggered abilities (starting with "when," "whenever," or "at") are unaffected.