Bamburgh Castle, located in Northumberland, UK, is a captivating archaeological site that has been the focus of extensive excavations by the Bamburgh Research Project since 1996. This historic castle has a rich history dating back to pre-Roman occupation, and the ongoing research has revealed a wealth of artifacts and structures from various periods, including Anglo-Saxon and medieval.
Discovering the Romano-British Roundhouse
One of the most significant finds at Bamburgh Castle is the discovery of a Romano-British roundhouse, unearthed in 2020. This remarkable structure, measuring around 12 meters in diameter, is believed to date back to the Roman occupation of Britain and holds crucial clues about the transition from the Roman period to Anglo-Saxon England. This discovery has the potential to change our understanding of this important historical period.
The Bamburgh Research Project Field School
The Bamburgh Research Project offers a comprehensive field school, providing participants with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in archaeological excavation and post-excavation skills. The field school runs from June 21st to July 24th, with participants able to choose between a combined Excavation and Post-Excavation program or a Post-Excavation only program. The cost of the field school is £280.00 per week if paying by cash or cheque, or an additional 5% if paying via PayPal.
Ongoing Excavations and Research
In addition to the field school, the Bamburgh Research Project conducts year-round research and updates on their blog. The project’s current areas of excavation include St Oswald’s Gate and the outworks beyond, the West Ward, and the Inner Ward of Bamburgh Castle. These excavations offer a glimpse into the industrial heart of the Anglo-Saxon fortress, a medieval tower with a reputed well, and the site of a possible smithy and grand timber halls.
Funding and Collaboration
The archaeological investigations at Bamburgh Castle are being funded by the Armstrong family, who own and operate the castle. These investigations include sampling, carbon testing, and analysis of data discovered at the roundhouse site, further enhancing our understanding of this important archaeological site.
Visiting Bamburgh Castle
Bamburgh Castle is open to the public, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the castle’s rich history and learn about the ongoing archaeological research. The castle’s website provides information about the castle’s history and its importance as an Anglo-Saxon archaeological site, while the Bamburgh Research Project’s blog offers regular updates on their research and findings.
Conclusion
Bamburgh Castle is a remarkable archaeological site that continues to reveal fascinating insights into the history of Britain. The ongoing excavations and research by the Bamburgh Research Project have uncovered a wealth of artifacts and structures, including the remarkable Romano-British roundhouse, which has the potential to change our understanding of the transition from the Roman period to Anglo-Saxon England. Whether you’re a seasoned archaeologist or simply interested in history, Bamburgh Castle is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the rich heritage of Northumberland.