The Nosterfield Quarry excavation sits at the heart of one of Britain’s most enigmatic prehistoric landscapes—the Thornborough Henges Complex.
Period: Iron Age
Feb 07
Guide: The Ard – Early Ploughing in English Brigantia
The ard, also known as a scratch plough, represents one of the earliest forms of agricultural technology used by the people of ancient Brigantia.
Jan 24
Briefing – Design of Galician Hillforts
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.
Jan 24
Briefing – Roman Interaction with Galicia and the Iberian Peninsula
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.
Jan 24
Biefing – The Myth of Breogán and the Tower of Heracles
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.
Jan 23
Guide – The Roman Period in the British Isles
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.
Ingleborough Iron Age Hillfort
Ingleborough Hill, located in the Yorkshire Dales, is known for its prehistoric significance, particularly its hill fort. The hill fort atop Ingleborough is located at an elevation of about 723 meters (2,372 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest known Iron Age settlements in the region.
Curse tablet addressed to the god Bregneus – Bath
‘To the god Bregneus I give the axe which I have lost from my house, (the house) of Hegemon. […] has stolen, he is not to be permitted sleep or health (until) he has brought it to your temple as we ?arrange. The hammer which I previously lost, it also […] ?I give.’
Altar dedicated to Bregans and the Divinity of the Emperor
Altar dedicated to Bregans and the Divinity of the Emperor
Altar dedicated to Victoria Brigantia – Castleford
To the goddess Victoria Brigantia Aurelius Senopianus dedicated this altar.
