A stilt village dating back 2,850 years in eastern England, known as Must Farm, has captured the attention of archaeologists with its astonishing preservation. Recently published research sheds light on the $1.4 million excavation, revealing insights into Bronze Age society.
The village, resembling a Bronze Age Pompeii, housed tightly packed roundhouses made of wood, straw, turf, and clay. These dwellings, along with their contents, were engulfed in flames, preserving a snapshot of daily life from late summer 2,850 years ago.
The excavation uncovered four roundhouses and a square entranceway structure, offering a glimpse into domesticity during the ninth century BC. The settlement, surrounded by a fence of sharpened posts, displayed signs of cozy living and relative prosperity.
Remarkably preserved artifacts, including 128 ceramic pieces and textiles made from flax linen, provided evidence of cooking, weaving, and storage practices. Wooden items such as boxes, bowls, and bobbins, along with 15 wooden buckets, showcased the resourcefulness of Bronze Age inhabitants.
Despite the devastation caused by the fire, the circumstances leading to it remain a mystery. The presence of spears and potential evidence of warfare suggest alternative explanations, yet a definitive cause could not be determined.
Analysis of biological remains revealed dietary habits, with evidence of wheat grain porridge mixed with animal fat and honey-glazed venison. Additionally, waste piles indicated the village’s short occupation span of only a year, challenging preconceived notions of Bronze Age life.
The findings suggest a more egalitarian society than previously thought, with common access to items like bronze tools and glass beads. This unique glimpse into the past offers valuable insights into ancient British culture and daily life.
The artifacts and discoveries from Must Farm will be showcased in an upcoming exhibition at the Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery, inviting the public to delve into the mysteries of Bronze Age society.
Comments