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Uncovering the Past: Archaeological Discoveries in Lincolnshire
Excavations in a field in Lincolnshire, England, have unveiled a fascinating piece of history—a 1,300-year-old hermitage located on the grounds of a much older henge structure. The archaeological team working on the site has made significant strides in unraveling the mysteries of this ancient location.
Unearthing the Past
The excavation has revealed evidence of a monumental henge that traces its origins back to the Neolithic or Early Bronze Age. Following its initial construction and subsequent abandonment, the site saw a resurgence in activity around the 7th century. The 12th century witnessed the construction of a grand hall and chapel complex by the abbots of Crowland, structures that still stand to this day.
A henge, characterized by its circular or oval earthwork design, is a distinctive feature of the Neolithic and Bronze Ages. According to English Heritage, these structures typically consist of a circular bank surrounding an interior ditch, with the central area serving as the focal point of the henge.
Historical Significance
Local beliefs suggest that Crowland’s medieval abbey may have served as the hermitage site of Guthlac, a nobleman who later devoted himself to a life of solitude and religious contemplation before his passing in 714. The site is also associated with Guthlac’s sister, Pega, a revered hermit following her brother’s footsteps. Research detailing the henge’s structure and earlier occupation prior to the 12th century has been published in the Journal of Field Archaeology.
Lead archaeologist Duncan Wright from Newcastle University describes the discovery as rare and significant, emphasizing the unique nature of finding a previously unknown henge site that underwent reoccupation during the Anglo-Saxon period.
Insights from Carbon Dating
Carbon dating of a deteriorated wooden post at the site indicates that the henge dates back to a period between 1502 BCE and 1323 BCE. By the Middle Bronze Age, the trenches comprising the henge had been largely filled in. The site’s location on a peninsula until the 12th century suggests that it held a sacred role within the community.
The evolving landscape of the site, culminating in its redevelopment by an Anglo-Norman monastery, signifies a continuity of sacred importance across different historical periods. The enduring significance of ceremonial sites like henges is further exemplified by past discoveries, such as the evolving nature of Stonehenge.
Artifacts and Interpretations
Excavations at Anchor Church Field have yielded a variety of artifacts, including pottery, bone combs, and glass fragments from ornate drinking vessels dating back to the 7th to 9th centuries. These findings, associated with high-status activities, shed light on the historical context of the site.
The discovery of a stone-lined pit near the hall and chapel complex raises intriguing possibilities regarding its function. Previously thought to be a well, the pit’s shallow nature and above-ground location challenge this assumption, leading researchers to consider alternative interpretations such as a setting for religious symbols or structures.
Concluding Thoughts
While the excavation has yet to definitively establish a direct link between the ancient site and Guthlac or Pega, the cultural significance of Crowland as a place of reverence spans millennia. The site’s importance predates the arrival of Christianity in the region, underscoring its enduring legacy throughout different historical epochs.
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