Castell Henllys Iron Age Village

Castell Henllys Iron Age Village is a unique archaeological site nestled in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park in Wales. It stands out as a significant educational resource and a window into the past, offering insights into the Iron Age period. The site is not only a place of historical interest but also a living history center where visitors can experience the Iron Age way of life. Castell Henllys is one of the few places in Europe where an ancient landscape has been reconstructed on the exact spot where Celtic tribes once lived, making it a rare and invaluable site for both archaeologists and the public.

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Historical Background of Castell Henllys Iron Age Village

Castell Henllys, discovered in the 1980s, is a testament to the Iron Age. Archaeologist Professor Harold Mytum of the University of York led the excavations. The site reveals a fortified village, known as a hillfort, built over 2,000 years ago. The Celts constructed this settlement, and it thrived during the Iron Age. Over time, Romans, and later medieval communities, inhabited the area. Castell Henllys has not been the scene of any known historical battles, but it provides a rich tapestry of everyday life from the period.

The hillfort’s strategic location, atop a hill surrounded by steep slopes, made it easily defensible. This suggests the Celts were not only farmers but also warriors, prepared for conflict. The discovery of the site was a significant milestone in British archaeology. It allowed for a deeper understanding of Iron Age social structures and defense mechanisms. The excavations at Castell Henllys have been ongoing, with each layer of soil revealing more about the people who once called this place home.

Castell Henllys is unique because it is an open-air laboratory for experimental archaeology. Here, researchers have reconstructed Iron Age buildings using traditional methods and materials. This approach has provided valuable insights into ancient construction techniques and daily life. The site has become a hub for educational activities, with schools and tourists visiting to learn about the past in an immersive environment.

While Castell Henllys was primarily a domestic settlement, it also had ceremonial significance. The presence of a large roundhouse, thought to be the chieftain’s hall, indicates a hierarchical society. The village layout, with its roundhouses and granaries, reflects a community that was self-sufficient and well-organized. The site’s excavation and reconstruction have been meticulous, ensuring that every detail is as accurate as possible.

Today, Castell Henllys is not just an archaeological site but also a cultural heritage asset. It provides a tangible connection to the ancestors of Wales and offers a unique educational experience. The site continues to be a focal point for research, with new discoveries and insights emerging regularly. It stands as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing us to walk in the footsteps of the Iron Age Celts.

About Castell Henllys Iron Age Village

Castell Henllys Iron Age Village is a reconstructed settlement that offers a glimpse into the past. The site features several roundhouses and other structures built on their original Iron Age foundations. These reconstructions are based on archaeological evidence unearthed during excavations. The buildings are made using authentic materials such as timber, thatch, and wattle and daub, a mixture of woven wooden strips and clay.

The largest roundhouse at Castell Henllys is the centerpiece of the village. It serves as the chieftain’s hall and is a marvel of ancient architecture. The roundhouses are conical structures with a central hearth, which was the heart of daily life. They showcase the ingenuity of Iron Age construction, designed to be both sturdy and comfortable. The thatched roofs and thick walls provided insulation against the harsh Welsh weather.

Beyond the roundhouses, the site includes granaries raised on stilts to protect food supplies from damp and pests. There are also remnants of defensive structures, such as ramparts and ditches, which encircle the village. These features highlight the community’s need for protection and their skill in fortification. The layout of the village offers insights into the social organization and priorities of its inhabitants.

Castell Henllys is not just a static museum exhibit; it is a living history site. Throughout the year, the village hosts various events and activities. These include craft demonstrations, Iron Age reenactments, and educational programs. These activities bring the village to life, allowing visitors to engage with history in a hands-on manner.

The site also serves as a research and educational facility. It provides resources for students and academics studying the Iron Age. The ongoing work at Castell Henllys continues to contribute to our understanding of the period. It also challenges and refines existing theories about life in Iron Age Britain.

Theories and Interpretations

Castell Henllys Iron Age Village has been the subject of various theories and interpretations. One of the main questions is the purpose of the site. While it was clearly a domestic settlement, its role as a ceremonial or trade center is also possible. The size and structure of the chieftain’s hall suggest it was a place of gathering and governance.

Some theories propose that Castell Henllys played a role in the wider Iron Age community. It could have been a hub for regional gatherings or a place of refuge in times of conflict. The presence of imported goods, such as pottery and metals, indicates connections with other groups. This suggests that trade and communication networks were well-established.

Interpretations of the site have also been shaped by the artifacts found during excavations. Items such as jewelry, tools, and weapons provide clues about the daily lives of the inhabitants. They also hint at the social status of individuals within the community. The discovery of animal bones has led to theories about diet and agriculture during the Iron Age.

Dating of the site has been carried out using various methods, including radiocarbon dating. These techniques have helped establish a timeline for the occupation of Castell Henllys. They have also been used to date specific structures and artifacts, providing a chronological framework for the site’s history.

Despite the wealth of information uncovered, some aspects of Castell Henllys remain a mystery. The beliefs and rituals of the Iron Age Celts are not fully understood. The site continues to be a focus for research, with each new finding adding to the tapestry of theories and interpretations surrounding this ancient village.

At a glance

Country: Wales

Civilization: Celtic

Age: Iron Age, approximately 600 BC to AD 100

Conclusion and Sources

Reputable sources used in the creation of this article include:

• Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castell_Henllys
• Official museum website: https://www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales/castell-henllys