Venutius

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John O’Gaunt’s Castle and Beaver Dyke – Harrogate

John OGaunts Castle - Harrogate 2025-02-06 222818

John O’Gaunt’s Castle, located near Harrogate in North Yorkshire, is a historical site with roots that intertwine myth, history, and medieval legend.

Guide: In Depth – Church Doors and Windows

Stanwick St John East window

The placement of church doors and windows, including the absence of eastern doors, reflects both theological symbolism and practical architectural traditions

Guide: Socratic Thought in Archaeology

An archaeologist standing puzzled in front of a new Oldsmobile car with a confused look on their face

Socratic thought in archaeology is a method of critical inquiry that challenges assumptions, promotes deeper exploration, and encourages rigorous reflection about the past. Based on the questioning techniques of the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates,

Guide: Magnetometry

A confused archaeologist sitting in a DeLorean with the Flux Capacitor glowing brightly

Magnetometry is one of the most widely used geophysical techniques in archaeology. It involves the measurement of the Earth’s magnetic field and detecting variations in magnetic properties caused by human activity.

Briefing – Geography and Geology of Galicia

Three Islands close to A Coruna

The region of Galicia, located in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, is a land defined by rugged coastlines, mountainous terrain, and fertile valleys. Galicia’s geography and geology have played a fundamental role in shaping both its natural environment and the ways in which ancient civilizations, such as the Gallaeci (the Celtic tribes of Galicia), interacted with their surroundings.

Briefing – Design of Galician Hillforts

Castro Viladonga Castro de Viladonga

Hillforts, or castros, are some of the most iconic archaeological features of Galicia and provide valuable insights into the region’s Celtic past. These ancient settlements, typically constructed on hilltops or elevated locations, were used for defensive and residential purposes by the Gallaeci and other Celtic groups in northwest Spain.

Briefing – Roman Interaction with Galicia and the Iberian Peninsula

Hut circles at Castro de Santa Trega

Roman Invasion of Hispania: The Romans’ first significant incursions into the Iberian Peninsula began in 218 BCE during the Second Punic War, when Hannibal Barca, the Carthaginian general, crossed the Alps and threatened Rome. This prompted Roman intervention to ensure control of their western Mediterranean territories.

Briefing – The Myth of Breogán and the Tower of Heracles

Statue of Breogans at a Coruna

Breogán is a legendary figure in Galician mythology and is regarded as the founder of the Galician people. The myth of Breogán is part of the ancient Celtic tradition, and while the details of his story vary across sources, he is universally seen as a key figure in the mythological ancestry of the Galicians.

Galicia

A Coruna Bay

The region of Galicia, located in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, has a history that stretches back to prehistoric times. Known for its Celtic roots, rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and rich folklore, Galicia is a place steeped in ancient traditions and mystery.

Guide – The Roman Period in the British Isles

Emperor Augustus dressed as a deity, parading through ancient Rome

Julius Caesar made the first significant Roman attempt to conquer Britannia in 55 BCE during his campaign in Gaul. He landed on the shores of south-eastern Britain, but his invasions were brief and mostly for reconnaissance. Despite some skirmishes, there was no lasting conquest at this stage.

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