A Remarkable Archaeological Discovery in the Channel Islands
In a thrilling archaeological find, well-preserved skeletons from the late Iron Age and Roman periods have been uncovered on Alderney, one of the Channel Islands. This discovery has shed new light on the island’s ancient history and presents exciting opportunities for further research.
The Unexpected Find
The story began in 2017 when human bones were accidentally discovered during the installation of an electricity cable near Longis Bay. This chance encounter led to a joint investigation by the Guernsey Museum and the Alderney Society, revealing a site of significant historical importance.
A Window into the Past
Dr. Phil de Jersey, the States archaeologist, describes the site on Longis Common as “one of the most exciting archaeological sites in the Channel Islands.” The bones, protected by two meters of sand, have remained remarkably well-preserved and undisturbed over the centuries.
Unveiling Ancient Lives
Radiocarbon dating of eight bones has revealed a fascinating timeline, with the oldest remains dating back to around 750 BC and the most recent to 238 AD. This wide timespan suggests that the site was used as a burial ground for hundreds of years.
Among the notable finds are:
- A female skeleton from 590-380 BC, adorned with an iron and bronze torc
- Another adult female from 170 BC-AD 90, buried with a late Iron Age pot
Challenges and Future Plans
While the site holds immense potential, excavating it presents significant challenges. The protective sand layer makes digging difficult, and the project requires substantial resources. Dr. de Jersey emphasizes the importance of conducting a thorough and careful excavation, stating, “It can only ever be dug once, as digging is very destructive, so we need to make sure we do a good job of it.”
Hope on the Horizon
Despite the obstacles, there are promising developments:
- A ground-penetrating radar scan is planned to determine the cemetery’s scale
- There’s potential for university involvement to assist with the excavation
As the archaeological community eagerly awaits the opportunity to uncover more of Alderney’s ancient secrets, this discovery serves as a reminder of the rich history lying just beneath our feet, waiting to be revealed.
