Ancestors: Prehistory of Britain in Seven Burials

Ancestors: A prehistory of Britain in seven burials

by Alice Roberts

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9976 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	446 pages

FREE

Ancestors: Prehistory of Britain in Seven Burials is a gripping historical documentary that takes viewers on an extraordinary journey through the prehistoric past of Britain, as revealed through the excavation of seven remarkable burials.

From the Neolithic to the Iron Age, each burial site offers a unique window into the lives, beliefs, and artistry of our ancestors. Expert archaeologists guide us through the meticulous excavation process, uncovering the secrets that have been hidden beneath the earth for thousands of years.

Neolithic Burials: The Origins of Monumental Architecture

The Neolithic period marked a transformative time in British history, as the first farmers arrived from mainland Europe. These early settlers introduced agriculture and a settled way of life, and their impact on the landscape is still visible today.

The documentary features a fascinating Neolithic burial site at Durrington Walls in Wiltshire. This monumental structure, dating back to around 2500 BC, provides evidence of an advanced society with sophisticated architectural skills. The burial chamber, known as the "long barrow," contained the remains of several individuals, along with a wealth of grave goods, including pottery, tools, and jewelry.

Bronze Age Burials: Warriors, Kings, and Rituals

The Bronze Age witnessed a rise in social hierarchy and the emergence of powerful elites. Burials from this period often reflect the wealth and status of the deceased.

One of the most striking Bronze Age burials featured in the documentary is the "Amesbury Archer," discovered near Stonehenge in Wiltshire. This remarkably preserved skeleton belonged to a wealthy warrior who was buried with a lavish array of weapons, including a bronze dagger, arrowheads, and a gold wrist cuff.

Iron Age Burials: Celts, Druids, and the Coming of Rome

The Iron Age in Britain saw the arrival of the Celts, a diverse group of tribes who brought with them a rich cultural heritage. Burials from this period often feature distinctive Celtic art and symbolism.

The documentary explores an Iron Age burial site at Danebury Hill in Hampshire. This hilltop settlement was occupied for several centuries and contains the remains of dozens of burials. Among the most intriguing is the "Lady of Danebury," a high-status female who was buried with a necklace made of over 200 amber beads.

: A Legacy of Ancestors

The seven burials featured in Ancestors: Prehistory of Britain offer a tantalizing glimpse into the lives and beliefs of our prehistoric ancestors. They provide evidence of their ingenuity, their artistry, and their deep connection to the land.

Through the meticulous work of archaeologists, these ancient burials continue to reveal the secrets of the past, connecting us to our ancestors and enriching our understanding of our shared human history.

Ancestors: A prehistory of Britain in seven burials

by Alice Roberts

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9976 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	446 pages

FREE