A Thrilling Archaeological Find
In a remarkable discovery, well-preserved skeletons from the late Iron Age and Roman periods have been unearthed on Alderney, one of the Channel Islands. This significant find has illuminated the island’s ancient history and opens up exciting avenues for further research.
The Unexpected Discovery
The story began in 2017 when human bones were accidentally uncovered during the installation of an electricity cable near Longis Bay. This serendipitous encounter led to a collaborative investigation by the Guernsey Museum and the Alderney Society, revealing a site of immense historical importance.
A Window into the Past
Dr. Phil de Jersey, the States archaeologist, described the site on Longis Common as “one of the most exciting archaeological sites in the Channel Islands.” The bones, remarkably preserved by two meters of protective sand, have remained undisturbed for centuries.
Unveiling Ancient Lives
Radiocarbon dating of eight bones has unveiled a captivating timeline, with the oldest remains dating back to approximately 750 BC and the most recent to 238 AD. This extensive timespan indicates that the site served as a burial ground for hundreds of years.
Among the notable discoveries are:
- A female skeleton from 590-380 BC, adorned with an iron and bronze torc.
- Another adult female from 170 BC to AD 90, buried with a late Iron Age pot.
Challenges and Future Plans
While the site holds great potential, excavating it poses significant challenges. The protective sand layer complicates digging, and the project necessitates substantial resources. Dr. de Jersey stresses the importance of conducting a meticulous excavation, stating, “It can only ever be dug once, as digging is very destructive, so we need to make sure we do a good job of it.”
Hope on the Horizon
Despite these obstacles, promising developments are on the horizon:
- A ground-penetrating radar scan is planned to assess the cemetery’s scale.
- There’s potential for university involvement to assist with the excavation.
As the archaeological community eagerly anticipates the chance to uncover more of Alderney’s ancient secrets, this discovery serves as a poignant reminder of the rich history waiting to be revealed just beneath our feet.
