An extraordinary archaeological discovery near Ely, Cambridgeshire, has revealed a rich history spanning thousands of years. What began as a routine excavation quickly turned into a treasure trove of artifacts, including a rare, nearly intact Bronze Age urn. This find, along with the remains of a Saxon village, offers fascinating insights into the region’s ancient past and highlights the enduring significance of this site.
The Bronze Age Urn: A Rare and Remarkable Find
Among the discoveries, the centerpiece is an almost perfectly intact late Neolithic or early Bronze Age urn, standing at 35 cm tall. Dating back approximately 4,000 years, the urn is 95% complete—a rarity in archaeological excavations. Project Officer Alice Schute expressed her astonishment, noting, “Normally we find fragments of pots which are a bit smashed and broken. We don’t usually get a whole vessel that’s 95% complete and still standing.”
This extraordinary find provides a rare glimpse into the craftsmanship of the Bronze Age. The urn, likely used for ceremonial or practical purposes, survived thousands of years buried beneath the soil, waiting to tell its story. Its discovery not only highlights the importance of this excavation but also underscores the ingenuity of the people who lived during that era.
Discovery of a Saxon Village
The excavation site also unearthed the remains of a previously unknown Saxon village, which included a “substantial hall” and several unique sunken featured buildings. These structures, buried up to 80 cm below ground, are similar to those found at West Stow in Suffolk, making them a significant find. Unlike traditional above-ground buildings, sunken featured buildings were constructed partially underground, offering protection from the elements and a glimpse into the innovative architectural practices of the Saxon period.
This settlement is believed to have been part of a much larger community, strategically located to take advantage of nearby resources. The discovery of these structures paints a vivid picture of life during the Saxon period, illustrating how communities thrived using practical and resourceful designs.
Artifacts Unearthed: Industrial Tools and Rare Finds
In addition to the Bronze Age urn and Saxon buildings, the excavation revealed an array of artifacts that provide insight into the daily lives of the people who once inhabited the area. Industrial tools such as loom weights, spindle whorls, and needles were uncovered, along with minuscule beads used for decorative purposes. These items highlight the craftsmanship and industriousness of the site’s inhabitants.
One particularly stunning artifact is a beautifully carved Bronze Age horse harness cheekpiece, which showcases the artistic skills of the era. Project Officer Alice Schute marveled at the preservation of these items, saying, “You think, ‘somebody last touched this thousands of years ago,’ yet some of these artifacts look like they could have been created yesterday.” Such finds connect us directly to the lives of ancient people, bridging the gap between the past and present.
Historical Timeline of the Site
The excavation has revealed evidence of continuous human presence at the site, beginning in the Bronze Age and extending through the Roman period. After a period of abandonment, the area was reoccupied in the 4th or 5th century CE, when the Saxon village was established. This unbroken timeline demonstrates the enduring appeal of the region, likely due to its fertile land and strategic location.
The artifacts and structures uncovered at the site suggest a rich history of trade, agriculture, and craftsmanship. From the carefully constructed irrigation systems of the Bronze Age to the industrial tools of the Saxon era, the site offers a comprehensive view of human innovation and adaptation over millennia.
Broader Implications of the Excavation
The findings at Ely go beyond local significance, contributing to a broader understanding of ancient settlements in Cambridgeshire and the UK as a whole. Britannia Archaeology director Martin Brook emphasized this point, saying, “The site’s important to local history, but it has a much wider significance – nobody knew it was here.” The unexpected discoveries have shed light on a previously overlooked chapter of history, providing valuable data for researchers and historians.
The excavation also demonstrates the importance of preserving historical sites, even in areas slated for modern development. Without these efforts, the incredible artifacts and structures uncovered at Ely might have been lost forever.
Community Engagement and Official Remarks
The excavation has captured the interest of the local community, with residents given opportunities to view some of the artifacts firsthand. Many were amazed by the pristine condition of the items, particularly the Bronze Age urn and the carved horse harness cheekpiece.
Local officials have also expressed their enthusiasm for the project. Ray Winney, Regional Managing Director at Orbit Homes, called the findings “truly extraordinary,” praising the work of the archaeological team. MP Lucy Frazer, who visited the site, echoed these sentiments, describing the discoveries as an “extraordinary feat.” She emphasized the importance of preserving these artifacts to honor the region’s rich history and inspire future generations.
Future of the Artifacts
The artifacts unearthed during the excavation are currently undergoing further analysis and preservation. Once this process is complete, they will be deposited with a suitable archive or museum, ensuring their long-term protection and accessibility for public education and research.
The discovery of these artifacts has already provided a wealth of information, but continued study promises to uncover even more about the people who once lived in the area. By preserving these items, we ensure that their stories can be shared with future generations.
Conclusion
The excavation near Ely, Cambridgeshire, has uncovered an unexpected treasure trove of history, from a pristine Bronze Age urn to the remains of a Saxon village. These findings offer a glimpse into the ingenuity, resilience, and creativity of the people who lived thousands of years ago. As these artifacts undergo preservation and further study, they will continue to provide invaluable insights into the region’s rich past. This remarkable discovery serves as a reminder of the importance of archaeology in uncovering and preserving the stories of our ancestors.
