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4w ago

Unveiling of Melsonby Hoard Reveals Iron Age Wealth in Northern Britain

The 800-item collection, displayed at the Yorkshire Museum, challenges assumptions about northern Britain's status and connections during the Iron Age.

A copper alloy strap from a harness with blue glass decoration found in the hoard.
Tom Moore, head of archaeology at Durham University, holding a decorative copper alloy finial, which was part of the hoard.
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Dated: 18/09/2024 In September 2022, a metal detectorist searching a field – with the landowner’s permission – near the village of Melsonby, North Yorkshire, discovered what is thought to be one of the biggest Iron Age hoard found in the UK. A team of archaeologists from Durham University were working in a separate field, close by, and he asked them to take a look. Experts from Durham University have been involved from the beginning – leading on the excavation and conservation of the items Historic England provided emergency funding for the excavation, assessment and conservation of the finds. The British Museum has also been involved from the beginning, providing specialist advice. The discovery is highly significant in terms of what it can tell us about Iron-Age society, technology and the wealth and power of communities at the end of the Iron Age. Over 800 objects have already been excavated and taken to Durham University, where they have been stabilised and are conserved. These items were buried deliberately and date from around 1st Century BC – 1st Century AD.

Overview

  • The Melsonby Hoard, discovered in 2021 and excavated in 2022, has been officially unveiled, with select items now on display at the Yorkshire Museum.
  • The hoard includes over 800 artifacts, such as wagon parts, ceremonial spears, and ornate cauldrons, marking it as one of the largest Iron Age finds in Britain.
  • Experts emphasize the hoard's significance in reshaping understanding of wealth distribution, trade, and cultural connections in Iron Age Britain, particularly in the north.
  • Many items were intentionally destroyed or burned, suggesting ritualistic or symbolic practices, potentially linked to funerary traditions.
  • A fundraising campaign has been launched to secure the collection for public display, while ongoing research continues to uncover its historical implications.