"An untouched archaeological treasure chest": Excavations to begin at vale ten times size of Stonehenge

This article originally appeared on Culture24.

Excavations could be new chapter in the story of Stonehenge, say experts

One of the oldest houses in Britain, used by people who archaeologists say would have seen Stonehenge “in full swing” between the monuments of Stonehenge and Avebury, is at the centre of a series of excavations planned by archaeologists at the country’s largest henge.

Built in around 2400 BC, Marden is part of the Vale of Pewsey – an archaeological region which experts admit has been little-explored, despite possessing international importance. Its former residents could even have helped upend Stonehenge’s stones.

“The Vale of Pewsey is a relatively untouched archaeological treasure chest under the shadow of one of the wonders of the world,” says Dr Jim Leary, of the University of Reading, who will direct the Archaeology Field School during the three-year project.

"This excavation is the beginning of a new chapter in the story of Stonehenge and its surrounds.

"Why Stonehenge was built remains a mystery. How the giant stones were transported almost defies belief.

“It must have been an astonishing, perhaps frightening, sight. Using the latest survey, excavation and scientific techniques, the project will reveal priceless insight into the lives of those who witnessed its construction.”

Roman settlements, a deserted medieval village and post-medieval water meadows accompany the Neolithic archaeology at the vale. Other investigations, backed by Historic England, Arts and Humanities Research Council and Wiltshire Museum, are planned along the River Avon.

"Marden Henge is located on a line which connects Stonehenge and Avebury,” says Dr Leary.

“This poses some fascinating questions. Were the three monuments competing against each other? Or were they used by the same communities but for different occasions and ceremonies?

"One of the many wonderful opportunities this excavation presents is to reveal the secret of the Vale itself. Communities throughout time settled and thrived there.

“A key aim of the dig is to further our understanding of how the use of the landscape evolved - from prehistory to history."

Duncan Wilson, the Chief Executive of Historic England, describes the area as being ten times the size of Stonehenge.

“Comparatively little is known about this fascinating and ancient landscape,” he says.

“The work will help us focus on identifying sites for protection and improved management, as well as adding a new dimension to our understanding of this important archaeological environment."

• Visitors can see the excavation from 10am-5pm (except Friday) until July 25 2015. Open days will be held on July 4 and 18. Use the postcode SN10 3RH to find the site. Find out more.

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Source: http://www.culture24.org.uk/history-and-heritage/archaeology/art530174-an-untouched-archaeological-treasure-chest-excavations-to-begin-at-vale-ten-times-size-of-stonehenge