The Amesbury Archer : 20 Years On
wessexarchaeology・2 minutes read
Archaeologists discovered a Bronze Age man's grave, rich in jewelry and gold, near Stonehenge, marking a significant find. The Amesbury Archer's DNA and physical examination shed light on his origin, lifestyle, and unique characteristics, providing valuable insights into ancient European movements and culture.
Insights
- The grave of the Bronze Age man near Amesbury contained an exceptional amount of valuable items, including delicate gold jewelry, making it a rare and significant find in archaeology.
- Analysis of the Amesbury Archer's remains revealed unique characteristics like a missing kneecap and unusual arm strength, shedding light on his physical condition and archery techniques, while DNA analysis indicated his Alpine origins and complex movements of people in ancient Europe.
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Recent questions
What significant archaeological discovery was made near Amesbury in Wiltshire?
The discovery near Amesbury in Wiltshire was a Bronze Age man's grave with exceptional riches, including delicate gold jewelry and an extensive collection of artifacts.
What was the importance of the Amesbury Archer's burial site being close to Stonehenge?
The proximity to Stonehenge hinted at a possible connection to the iconic site, adding to the significance and intrigue of the archaeological find.
What unique characteristics were revealed about the Amesbury Archer through physical examination?
The Archer's bones showed a wasted left leg with the absence of a kneecap, indicating disability and limited mobility, while his arm bones displayed unusual strength, with the left arm stronger than the right.
What insights did DNA analysis provide about the origins of the Amesbury Archer?
DNA analysis revealed the Archer's elevated step ancestry, indicating a westward movement of people from continental Europe to the British Isles during the Beaker period, shedding light on his origins and movements.
How did the discovery of gold in the Amesbury Archer's grave impact the excavation process?
The discovery of gold prompted quick action to secure the site over a bank holiday weekend to prevent theft, ensuring proper excavation and highlighting the importance of the find.
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