Evidence of Ancient Human Activity Unearthed at Strata Florida

By Dylan Davies | News Editor
Published: Monday, 27th January 2025, 7:00 PM

An archaeological dig at Strata Florida has revealed traces of human activity dating back an astonishing 7,500 years, shedding new light on the historical significance of the site.

Unearthing the Past

Over the past summer, archaeologists worked on the grounds of the former Cistercian Abbey as part of a public field school. These excavations, which will resume in 2025, have been focused on the courtyard of Mynachlog Fawr farm buildings, currently being restored by the Strata Florida Trust.

The discoveries include a network of structures and features hidden beneath the courtyard. Among these are remnants of a medieval aqueduct, parts of the abbey, and evidence of even earlier constructions.

Radiocarbon Dating Offers Insight

Radiocarbon dating has been pivotal in this research. During the 2024 field school, 11 charcoal samples were collected and analyzed. The findings include:

• Five samples from the late 12th and 13th centuries, coinciding with the medieval Cistercian monastery.

• Another five samples dating from 951 AD to 1172 AD, suggesting structures like flagged surfaces and stone walls existed before the Cistercians arrived in 1184.

These earlier findings hint at a pre-Cistercian presence, potentially involving an earlier church or monastery.

The final sample, however, is the most extraordinary: it dates back to between 5920 and 5758 BC, firmly within the Mesolithic Era. This discovery points to human activity at the site over 7,500 years ago, marking it as a location of enduring historical importance.

Ongoing Exploration

While the exact use of the site before the Cistercian period remains a mystery, researchers are optimistic that continued excavations and advanced dating techniques will unlock further insights into its ancient history.

Preserving History and Revitalizing the Future

The Strata Florida Trust is not only leading archaeological efforts but also revitalizing the region by restoring the Mynachlog Fawr farmhouse and adjacent buildings. Their aim is to breathe new life into the area, celebrating its unique heritage while fostering economic, social, and cultural growth.

Get Involved

The Strata Florida Archaeology Field School welcomes participants of all experience levels and will run from 16 June to 13 July this year. This is an opportunity to engage in hands-on exploration of one of Wales' most historically significant sites.

A Testament to Timeless History

The discoveries at Strata Florida underscore the site's rich and varied history, stretching from the Mesolithic Era to medieval times. As research continues, the story of this remarkable location becomes even more compelling.

For more information or to get involved, visit the Strata Florida Trust’s website.

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