Venutius

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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 BreogĆ”n and the Tower of Heracles

Statue of Breogans at a Coruna

BreogƔn is a legendary figure in Galician mythology and is regarded as the founder of the Galician people. The myth of BreogƔn 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.

Guide – Archaeological Periods in Western Europe

A landscape showing the evolution of human history

Understanding the archaeological periods across Western Europe is essential for exploring the evolution of human societies from prehistory to the beginnings of written history. These periods are generally defined by shifts in technology, social organization, and the environment, and they often vary slightly from region to region.

Guide – Landscape Archaeology: Post-Ice Age Landscape of Thornborough

The landscape of Thornborough before the arrival of humans was shaped by the end of the last Ice Age, approximately 10,000 years ago. As the glaciers receded, the land began to warm, leading to the rebirth of plant and animal life. The area would have been covered by a mosaic of vegetation that slowly replaced the tundra-like conditions left behind by the retreating ice sheets.

Guide – Empathic Archaeology: The Ancestral Honour Thought Exercise

A father and son working together in a field, around 20,000 BC.

Celtic Heads Celtic Head from Witham, 2nd c B.C. (British Museum) “Celtic” carved heads are found throughout the Read more Timeline 60BC – 138AD This timeline is focussed on the British Celtic culture and those cultures which had influence on the British Celts. It Read more Heads at St Michael, Kirklington An analysis of head …

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