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The Amesbury Archer : 20 Years On

wessexarchaeology・42 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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Summary

00:00

"Bronze Age Archer's Riches Near Stonehenge"

  • In May 2002, archaeologists from Wessex Archaeology excavated near Amesbury in Wiltshire, discovering a Bronze Age man's grave with exceptional riches.
  • The man, an archer buried over 4,000 years ago, was found with an extensive collection including jewelry, arrows, knives, and food and drink pots for the afterlife.
  • The quantity of fines in the grave was ten times more than usual for a Bronze Age burial, with delicate gold jewelry making it an extraordinary find.
  • The discovery was close to Stonehenge, hinting at a possible connection to the iconic site.
  • The excavation team considered this find a career highlight, emphasizing the rarity and significance of the discovery.
  • The burial site was initially not the main focus of the excavation, but the unexpected discovery led to immediate and thorough excavation over a weekend.
  • The discovery of gold in the burial prompted quick action to secure the site over a bank holiday weekend to prevent theft and ensure proper excavation.
  • The excavation process involved careful removal of artifacts, including arrowheads and other items, with the challenge of shifting a significant amount of soil.
  • The discovery's importance was highlighted by the potential implications for understanding the man's role in history and the technology he may have brought to the region.
  • The excavation marked a significant moment in the careers of the archaeologists involved, with some considering it the pinnacle of their professional achievements.

15:14

"Amesbury Archer: Journey Revealed Through Analysis"

  • The interest in the archaeological find of the Amesbury Archer lies in the chemical analysis conducted post-discovery, shedding light on his journey and lifestyle.
  • DNA analysis has been a recent and exciting development in archaeology, providing valuable insights into the origins and relationships of ancient individuals.
  • The physical examination of the Archer's bones revealed unique characteristics, such as a wasted left leg and the absence of a kneecap, indicating disability and limited mobility.
  • Biomechanical studies by Professor Chris Ruff highlighted the missing patella in the Archer's leg from a young age, affecting his ability to bend his knee properly.
  • The Archer's arm bones showed unusual strength, with his left arm stronger than the right, suggesting a different use of archery compared to his contemporaries.
  • 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.
  • The Archer and his companion, buried next to him, shared a rare morphological variation in their foot bones, suggesting a familial link despite not being first-degree relatives.
  • The combination of isotopic and DNA data indicated the Archer's Alpine origin and the companion's likely French origin, showcasing the complex movements of people in ancient Europe.
  • Challenges in ancient DNA analysis were highlighted, with limitations in obtaining complete genetic information due to degradation over time.
  • The study of objects buried with the Archer, such as the antelope pin and wrist guards, along with isotopic and DNA data, provided converging evidence to draw conclusions about his origins and cultural connections.

31:53

"Amesbury Archer: Gold and Metalworking Discoveries"

  • Many flint objects in the grave were unused, possibly made specifically for burial.
  • Evidence suggests boar tusks were used in metalworking, with traces of copper and gold found on them.
  • Stone tools for metalworking were often found in groups in continental European graves.
  • The archer's grave contained modified boar tusks, indicating their use in metalworking.
  • Gold was found in the companion's grave, surprising researchers and adding to the excitement.
  • The archer's burial was a career highlight for the researcher, leading to widespread public interest.
  • The archer's finds were included in exhibitions in Germany and the British Museum, continuing to attract attention.
  • The archer's bones and objects are displayed in the Wessex Gallery of Salisbury Museum, alongside other discoveries.
  • The archer's burial with rare gold objects and arrowheads suggests high respect and importance in the community.
  • The Amesbury Archer serves as an educational tool for schools, with loan boxes allowing hands-on exploration of artifacts.

47:27

Ancient Cultures: Insights from Archaeological Discoveries

  • The ancient cultures, like the Beaker people and Stone Age individuals, were physiologically similar to us, with evidence of creativity and emotional struggles. Connecting young people to the past is crucial, as tangible archaeology holds stories of survival and meaning from thousands of years ago. The discovery of the Amesbury Archer, 44 centuries old, continues to provide insights into the early Bronze Age and the advancements in archaeological science, hinting at more revelations in the next 20 years.
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