'First of its kind': Massive Iron Age treasure trove reveals evidence of four-wheeled wagons in Britain
Archaeologists in North Yorkshire have uncovered a "nationally significant" hoard of over 950 Iron Age objects, providing the first concrete evidence of four-wheeled wagons in Britain from that era.
The discovery was initially made by metal detectorist Peter Heads in a field near Melsonby. Following the initial find, a professional excavation led by Durham University and supported by Historic England was launched in 2022. The results, recently detailed by researchers, have reshaped the understanding of Iron Age technology and social hierarchy in Northern England.
A Wealth of Artifacts
The treasure trove, dating back approximately 2,000 years to the 1st century AD, consists of nearly 950 individual metal items. The collection is dominated by high-status equestrian and vehicular equipment, including:
Wagon and Chariot Parts: Iron tires, linchpins, nave bands, and axle fittings.
Horse Harnesses: Ornate fittings for at least 14 ponies, decorated with red Mediterranean coral and colorful glass enamel.
Domestic and Ritual Items: Two large bronze cauldrons, ceremonial spears, and an iron mirror.
Historic "Firsts"
The most significant aspect of the find is the evidence of four-wheeled wagons. While two-wheeled chariots are well-documented in Iron Age Britain (particularly through "chariot burials"), the remains of larger, four-wheeled vehicles were previously unknown in the British archaeological record for this period.
"This is a find of international importance," said Dr. Tom Moore, an archaeology professor at Durham University. "The presence of four-wheeled wagons suggests a level of technological sophistication and continental influence that we hadn't fully appreciated in this region."
The Power of the Brigantes
Experts believe the hoard belonged to the Brigantes, the powerful Celtic tribe that controlled much of Northern England during the Roman invasion.
The presence of Mediterranean coral and sophisticated metalwork suggests that the northern tribes were far from isolated. Instead, they were part of a vast trade network connecting them to mainland Europe and the Roman world. The sheer volume of wealth also challenges the long-held academic assumption that Northern Britain was significantly poorer or less developed than the south during the Iron Age.
Source:
Comments
Post a Comment