Archeology
South Wales has a rich and fascinating history in archaeology, pre-dating the Romans and spanning the centuries, right up through our modern day iron and coal mining industries. There are few places that can combine historical and industrial archaeology in this way. Here are some examples of places to explore and get you looking down not up.
Llancaich Fawr
During the weekend of the 19 and 20th of July Llancaich Fawr is the place to be for all budding Archaeologists. Become an Archaeologist for the weekend and take part in investigatory excavations. Could the ditch in the field adjacent to the Manor be Roman practice works where soldiers from the fort at nearby Gelligaer were taken out to be taught how to dig defensive ditches? Or something else entirely? Help find out the answers in a dig led by Mark Anthony of Council for British Archaeology. Also on site will be the Glamorgan and Gwent Archaeological Unit and the Young Archaeologists Club will be here to answer any questions about archaeology in the area so come along and join the fun.
Sirhowy Iron Works
Sirhowy Iron Works was in operation for over a 125 years. First opening in 1778 and operating as an iron works until 1883, Sirhowy then continued running as a coke producer for Ebbw Vale until 1905. Recently restored and conserved these iron works are a wonderful surprise discovery for any one interested in industrial revolution and its archaeology.
Cardiff Castle
With the opening of the new Interpretation Centre and massive ongoing conservation and refurbishment project there has never been a better time to visit Cardiff Castle and explore its archaeology and history. Come to the Castle and explore 2000 years of history spanning the Romans through the Normans and up to the elaborate Victorian design that you see today. Start your visit at the new Interpretation Centre, take in the new exhibition and film presentation, see the recently exposed original Roman Wall and then pick up your personal multi-media guide to explore the Castle grounds which lasts approximately 60 minutes.
Abby Mill
Set on the old mill site of Tintern Abbey founded in 1131 Abby Mill is currently working on a project to restore the old water wheel to its former working glory. Wander around the Mill and the surrounding fields and river sides keeping a close eye to the ground and you never now what ancient artefacts you might find? If you have no success then consider consoling yourselves by purchasing an artefact of the future, from one of the artists shops in the Mill.
Dewstow Gardens
A bit of Modern archaeology for you. Can you imagine discovering a lost garden with tunnels and underground grottoes buried under thousands of tons of soil for over 50 years? That’s just what happened at Dewstow Gardens. Built around 1895 the gardens were buried just after WWII and rediscovered in 2000. After 8 years of digging, scraping, cleaning, fixing and replanting the gardens are back to their former pre-war glory and open to the public for a fascinating visit.