Archaeologists find 'unprecedented' Iron Age hoard
The unveiling of the Melsonby Hoard
A copper alloy harness fitting decorated with coral,
and held in place with tiny rivets, was among the items discovered
[Durham University]
You have to use your imagination a bit, Iron Age artefacts from 2,000 years ago have rusted or faded and are far from their original glory. Some of them were decorated with coral which has bleached over the centuries. But it's the story they tell that's extraordinary. Iron Age experts now have evidence that people 2,000 years ago had four wheel wagons as well as two wheel chariots. They now have proof that Iron Age residents of northern England had trading connections with the continent and the growing Roman Empire.
"This is one of the most important and exciting Iron Age period discoveries made in the UK.
Among the items uncovered were the partial remains of more than seven four-wheeled wagons and/or two-wheeled chariots, including elaborate harnesses for at least 14 ponies, some which were adorned with red, Mediterranean coral and coloured glass, and 28 iron tyres from horse-drawn vehicles.
They also found three ceremonial spears and two ornate cauldrons or vessels, one that was decorated in both Mediterranean and Iron Age styles and probably used as a wine mixing bowl.
The hoard showed there was more wealth in the north of England at the time than previously thought. "Whoever originally owned the material in this hoard was probably a part of a network of elites across Britain, into Europe and even the Roman world,"
A selection of objects from the hoard will be on display at the Yorkshire Museum from 25 March 2025.
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