NetSERF: Middle Ages in the News: 2003

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Middle Ages in the News
2003

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Below you will find 266 items from around the world on many different topics in the news concerning the Middle Ages. These might range from obituaries of great scholars of the period to articles about the last efforts to preserve a medieval barn. The Middle Ages comes up quite regularly in the news and so we will aim to bring you the latest. To help with that we have also set up two methods for you to get these items:

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Castle's medieval Christmas: Tourists have had an opportunity to find out what Christmas was really like for the residents of a 14th century castle. For the first time, Chirk Castle is coming out of winter hibernation and opening its doors for a weekend of seasonal celebrations.
Source: BBC News Date: 7 Dec 2003
King's grave mystery may be unearthed: A group of amateur historians are battling to open a tomb which they claim contains the remains of King Harold II. The historians say if they break open the tomb at Holy Trinity Church in Bosham, West Sussex, they will uncover the mystery surrounding the final resting place of the last Anglo-Saxon king.
Source: BBC News Date: 24 Nov 2003
Psychic 'reads' medieval ship: A psychic has tried to 'read' the wood of the medieval ship raised from a south Wales river bank to try and uncover its past. Despite being pored over by teams of archaeologists and scientists, there is still a lot of mystery over the boat which was unearthed from the banks of the River Usk in Newport 16 months ago.
Source: BBC News Date: 22 Oct 2003
From Plagues to People: How many degrees separate Herodotus and the Egyptians from the Black Death? Not very many, according to Prof. Laura Harrington's new two-credit course entitled "Plagues and People," Entomology 210. The ancient scholar and the Nile-centered civilization both discovered methods of avoiding bug bites with the use of nets; the plague was a flea-bred disease that killed up to one-third of the European population in the 14th century.
Source: Cornell Daily Sun Date: 16 Sep 2003
Schools celebrate Glyndwr day: Tales of the dramatic exploits and weaponry used by Owain Glyndwr - thought by many to be one of the great heroes of Welsh history - are part of a commemoration for schoolchildren in north Wales. Owain Glyndwr, the last Welsh-born Prince of Wales, is being remembered in an Owain Glyndwr Day on Tuesday with celebrations continuing until Friday.
Source: BBC News Date: 16 Sep 2003
Work Goes on to Save Greyfriars: It lost the nation's vote but West Norfolk's leaning tower is still in line for public funds to save it. The 14th-century Greyfriars Tower missed out on up to £3.3m when it failed on Sunday to win the BBC's Restoration.
Source: EDP 24 Date: 16 Sep 2003
Monty Python Fans Flock to Castle: Strange things happen to many a traveler while roaming the dark passages and chambers of Doune Castle. They are overcome with an irresistible urge to say silly things like "Bring out your dead!" and "We are the knights who say NI!" The 14th-century castle was the location for much of the filming of the 1974 classic "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," considered by devotees one of the funniest films ever made.
Source: CNN International Date: 15 Sep 2003
Iron Age Fort Blaze Sparks Fear For Relics: Hidden archaeological treasures at the site of an Iron Age fort may have been destroyed by a massive fire which has burned for five days. It is thought a carelessly dropped cigarette could have sparked the huge grass fire at Traprain Law, East Lothian. The site of the historic hill fort, which also contains remnants of a medieval settlement, was still shrouded in smoke yesterday as a fire which started on Sunday continued to burn underground.
Source: Edinburgh News Date: 13 Sep 2003
Library shows its rarest books: Rare books dating back to the 13th century have gone on display in Liverpool for one weekend only. The city's Central Library has thrown open its doors on what it describes as its "crown jewels", as part of the UKs annual Heritage Open Days. There is also access to the city's town hall.
Source: BBC News Date: 13 Sep 2003
Princely Support For Restoration Bid: Plans to restore an ancient Norfolk monument have been given a royal seal of approval by the Prince of Wales. The 15th century Greyfriars Tower at King's Lynn was voted the eastern region's representative in the final in the popular BBC2 series Restoration. On the programme's grand finale tomorrow, Prince Charles will reveal he has been watching the show during its five-week run.
Source: EDP 24 Date: 13 Sep 2003
How Chickens Helped Fire Medieval Cannon: Medieval gunpowder packed more of a punch than scientists thought, according to a project to recreate the explosive using dung pits, foot stomping and wood ash. Researchers at the Royal Armouries in Leeds were astonished by the results of a 10-year collaboration with European colleagues to recreate 14th century gunpowder recipes.
Source: Telegraph Date: 11 Sep 2003
Islam Had Specialist Medicine in Dark Ages: Specialist medical research, free public health treatment and retirement homes for the aged were available in Baghdad and other parts of the Islamic world in AD950, while Britons were still in the Dark Ages, Emilie Savage-Smith of the University of Oxford told the British Association science festival in Salford yesterday.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 11 Sep 2003
Medieval Gunpowder Packed a Modern Punch: Medieval gunners knew a thing or two their modern day counterparts might find surprising, producing gunpowder of equal potency to that in use today. A mixture of charcoal, saltpetre and sulphur -- the recipe for gunpowder used by Edward III's gunners as his armies rampaged across France in the 14th century -- equalled the explosive force of the 20th century version, Robert Smith of the Royal Armouries told reporters on Wednesday.
Source: Mirror Date: 11 Sep 2003
Medieval Weapons of Mass Destruction: Medieval recipes for gunpowder produce nearly the same firepower as today's manufactured equivalent, according to recent weapons tests, providing clues as to how the British fleet became one of the largest fighting forces in the world. Robert Smith who is Head of Conservation at the Royal Armouries in Leeds, told the British Association for the Advancement of Science conference in Manchester this week that the medieval gunpowder was made from ancient recipes or formulas still surviving from the 14th Century.
Source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation Date: 11 Sep 2003
Conservation Site Found For Ship: A medieval ship is being transported to a secret location to allow a conservation programme to begin in earnest. The 15th Century vessel was discovered in the banks of the River Usk in Newport by workers building a new arts centre. Around 1,700 timbers of the boat were excavated and have been in storage at a building at Corus' Llanwern site.
Source: BBC News Date: 10 Sep 2003
Possible Viking Boat Found in Norway: A dugout canoe that may date from Viking times has been found in Norway, yielding clues to the lives of people who fished a small lake perhaps 1,000 years ago. The pine vessel was dragged from Royraas lake in southern Norway Monday after a tip from the family of two elderly men who had spotted the boat when they swam in the lake as children in the 1930s. "We believe it dates from the Viking times or perhaps from the early Middle Ages," Snorre Haukalid, a county archeologist , told Reuters on Tuesday.
Source: CNN Date: 10 Sep 2003
Grave Goings-on as Slab Spooks Shoe Shop Staff: Spooked staff at a South Yorkshire shoe shop feared they'd put one foot in the grave when they walked into their new Victorian premises. Workers were shocked to discover what may be a medieval tombstone in the cellar of Hambys at the top of High Street, Rotherham. English Heritage experts were called in to confirm that the 5ft-long, 2-inch deep slab was a grave stone, dating back to the 14th or 15th century. Part of an old inscription still appears to be visible on the hard stone. There is no real grave beneath it and the heavy slab must have been moved there at some point.
Source: Sheffield Today Date: 8 Sep 2003
Medieval Remains Found at Bank Site: Medieval remains have been discovered near the site of the new headquarters of the Royal Bank of Scotland. Pottery shards, rubbish pits and animal bones were unearthed north of the A8 opposite the banking giant’s headquarters, which are currently under construction at Gogarburn in the west of the city.
Source: Edinburgh News Date: 8 Sep 2003
Pier’s Ghostly Goings-On: Cromer Pier normally echoes to the sights and sounds of seaside entertainers and laughing crowds. But the end-of-the-pier theatre stage is also home to some rather spookier goings-on. So who are they gonna call? The ghosthunters. Paranormal experts are on their way to check out chilling stories of medieval men in rags, unhappy lifeboatmen and a jaunty former theatre boss continuing to visit the jetty after their deaths.
Source: EDP 24 Date: 8 Sep 2003
Ivan Shishman: a Lust for Power: Ivan Shishman (1371-1395) was Bulgaria's last medieval ruler and has since become a national hero. Driven by deep longing for power, having achieved it, he held his position for one of the shortest periods in the country's history.
Source: Sofia Echo Date: 5 Sep 2003
Outrage Over Plan to Charge for Castle Entry: Guardians of the castle English Heritage are to put an end to the privileges currently enjoyed by townsfolk, who can get into the castle without paying. Instead, they will allow residents to bring in children free of charge, and get reduced prices for certain events. But many are furious at the reduced benefits and want a public consultation before the decision is implemented.
Source: Kenilworth Weekly News Date: 5 Sep 2003
Probe into Gallows Street Site: Archaeologists are to be brought in to hunt for medieval remains in a Torquay street which may have been the site of public hangings. The area at Rowley Road in St Marychurch is the subject of a planning bid to build five homes, which has now been approved. Local folklore suggests hangings of criminals may have taken place there, in what is now a popular residential street. Before any building work starts, an archaeologist will be given access to the site to see if any medieval remains can be found.
Source: This is South Devon Date: 5 Sep 2003
Secrets of Burial Site: Preston scientists launched a rescue mission to save the graveyard remains of more than 100 people from the sea. The team of lecturers and students from the University of Central Lancashire have spent weeks digging at an archaeological site in Anglesey, off the coast of North Wales.
Source: This is Lancashire Date: 5 Sep 2003
Ancient Boat Found Buried in Mud: A wooden boat thought to date back more than 1,500 years is to be raised from its resting place on the Hampshire coast. Archaeologists are to attempt to raise the canoe from the intertidal mud of Langstone Harbour, near Portsmouth.
Source: BBC News Date: 4 Sep 2003
Spooky Sutton Hoo Loses its Magic: The National Trust visitor centre at one of Britain's prime historical sites has attracted thousands of tourists - which is bad news, says Giles Worsley. Sutton Hoo is one of those names that send shivers down the spine. Who has seen the enigmatic warrior's helmet with its sinister eye sockets - discovered there and now kept in the British Museum - and not wanted to know more of its owner?
Source: Telegraph Date: 3 Sep 2003
14th Century Castle For Sale: A Scottish castle and title are up for grabs, but only if the sellers decide that a prospective buyer is rich and famous enough to take possession. The 700-year-old Castle Lee, its contents and benefits, including the barony title, three lodge houses and 261 acres of land, are being sold via an exclusive website.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 2 Sep 2003
Call for Some Towering Support: Let's hear it for Greyfriars! That was the heartfelt plea to conservation enthusiasts across East Anglia last night as a voting campaign for one of Norfolk's most historic monuments shifted into top gear. Greyfriars Tower, in King's Lynn, will be taking part in the final of the BBC's Restoration programme next month, having beaten competition from Essex and Lincolnshire to triumph in the regional heat.
Source: EDP 24 Date: 1 Sep 2003
Does Norse blood flow in Inuit?: A centuries-old Arctic mystery may be weeks away from resolution as an Icelandic anthropologist prepares to release his findings on the so-called "Blond Eskimos" of the Canadian North. "It's an old story," says Gisli Palsson of the University of Iceland in Reykjavik. "We want to try to throw new light on the history of the Inuit." Stories about Inuit with distinct European features -- blue eyes, fair hair, beards -- living in the central Arctic have their roots in ancient tales of Norse settlements and explorations.
Source: Edmonton Journal Date: 1 Sep 2003
New Findings From Cathedral Study: Controversial new evidence suggests the famous west front of Lincoln Cathedral might not have been part of the cathedral at all. It was thought to be the only remaining part of the original Norman cathedral built in 1092. But now it is being claimed it was actually a separate house built for the man in charge of construction, Remigius, the first Bishop of Lincoln.
Source: BBC News Date: 1 Sep 2003
Light in the Dark Ages: Cats are suited to a monastic life; they spend hours in silent contemplation and have little interest in worldly goods. Back in the Dark Ages, a cat could do a lot worse than make a home in a monastery, with its warm kitchens and quiet, cool corners. Opportunist strays were adopted by monks who appreciated the pest control and waste disposal services they offered. No doubt the companionship was also a welcome intrusion into a life of isolation and austerity.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 30 Aug 2003
Sutton Hoo Helmet to Feature on Stamps: A new set of stamps are to feature the famous Sutton Hoo helmet, found near Woodbridge in 1939. The Post Office is bringing out stamps in October to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the British Museum. One of the stamps will feature the helmet which was donated to the British Museum after being found in the remains of a ship on land owned by Edith Pretty.
Source: Evening Star Date: 30 Aug 2003
Ancient Motifs in Medieval Manuscripts at the Getty: The brilliant, complex, and colorful decorations of medieval illuminated manuscripts were rarely the result of pure artistic inspiration. Medieval artists often looked to the rich past for ideas. The new exhibition “Transforming Tradition: Ancient Motifs in Medieval Manuscripts”, at the Getty from September 23 through November 30, 2003, points out that some of the subjects and details of these dazzling painted books originated, directly or indirectly, in the arts of classical Greece and Rome.
Source: Art Museum Network News Date: 29 Aug 2003
Medieval Relic for Gozo: Just a few weeks after the relics of St Therese of Lisieux were brought to Malta and Gozo, it was yesterday announced that a relic dating from medieval times is being brought to Gozo for the first time ever, the relic of Offida is being allowed to leave the Italian town and will be brought to Gozo. The relic dates to 1273 in Lanciano, a town in the southern province of Puglia, when, as tradition has it, a woman who wanted children to be able to get her husband’s love back, went to a sorceress who told her to maltreat the Host. But when the woman tried to obey the sorceress, the Host was changed into flesh and blood flowed from it.
Source: Malta Independent Daily Date: 29 Aug 2003
Building Site was Saxon Burial Ground: A new housing estate will be built in Ely on a site believed to have once been an Anglo Saxon cemetery. Archaeologists, who have just finished an extensive dig on what is known as The Golden Triangle in Cambridge Road, opposite Ely Golf Club, uncovered evidence that showed it was a burial ground in the 6th Century AD. They found fragments of bone and copper brooches, glass and amber beads and an iron spearhead.
Source: The Ely Standard Date: 28 Aug 2003
Manor Named Oldest Continually Occupied House: A manor house dating from before 1150 has been named as Britain's oldest continually occupied house. Saltford Manor House, in Saltford, near Bristol, took the title from a list drawn up for Country Life magazine. Writer Dr John Goodall considered suggestions from readers and national experts before naming the property as his choice.
Source: Ananova Date: 27 Aug 2003
Wharram Percy Shows up Medieval Way of Life: The first ever scientific study of breast-feeding habits in medieval England has discovered that otherwise malnourished peasants followed present-day doctor's orders and breast fed their babies a better chance of survival. Dr Simon Mays, human skeletal biologist at English Heritage's centre for archaeology, has carried out extensive research on bones found 40 years ago at the deserted medieval village of Wharram Percy, near Malton.
Source: This is Ryedale Date: 27 Aug 2003
Skeleton Find Points to Huge Mediaeval Graveyard Below St Andrews Town Centre: The discovery of more than 50 human skeletons in a shallow grave beneath a St Andrews public library has provided the strongest evidence yet that the town centre is built over an extensive mediaeval graveyard. “Every building in the entire central region of St Andrews is built on top of a mediaeval cemetery,” said the senior archaeologist at Fife Council archaeology unit, Douglas Speirs. “If you were to lift the floors in any one of the buildings in this area you would find what we have found.”
Source: Sunday Herald Date: 24 Aug 2003
Medieval Babes 'Thrived Because of Breastfeeding': Babies in medieval England fared as well as their modern counterparts because of extended breastfeeding by their mothers, according to tests on bones found in an abandoned village. Lengthy breastfeeding was recommended by the classical Roman writer Soranus in the 1st century AD, which influenced medieval physicians. Now it seems this advice was heeded by medieval mothers in Yorkshire who shielded their young from early death by suckling them for up to 18 months
Source: Telegraph Date: 23 Aug 2003
Breast Best for Medieval Children: When the Black Death came to a Yorkshire village, medieval mothers protected their newborn babies through prolonged breast-feeding, new research shows.The first-ever scientific study of breast-feeding habits in medieval England has discovered that otherwise malnourished peasants in an abandoned village in the Yorkshire Wolds breast-fed their children for 18 months. And while the peasant villagers of Wharram Percy faced a bleak struggle for survival, their breast-fed babies grew as well as today's babies.
Source: Yorkshire Post Today Date: 22 Aug 2003
Medieval Hall Gets a Lift to New Home: A medieval hall was picked up and moved 70ft in one piece yesterday to make way for a new shopping centre. The operation, costing hundreds of thousands of pounds, saw the Grade II listed Pescod Hall hoisted off its original foundations and rotated through 180 degrees before being taken to its new site nearby.
Source: Telegraph Date: 22 Aug 2003
Preserving the Past: UNESCO will sign an agreement to restore seven houses in the Old City of Plovdiv during Secretary General Koichiro Matsura's visit to Sofia next week. Deputy Foreign Minister Petko Draganov, who announced the impending agreement, said the buildings are located in the city centre and would be an attractive tourist destination.
Source: Sofia Echo Date: 22 Aug 2003
Swiss Bewitched by Magic of the Middle Ages: The Middle Ages have an increasing fascination for the Swiss, who are falling over themselves to re-enact this dark period in history. Revels are currently taking place in Bern. The main aim is to entertain and appeal to the imagination, but the celebrations are also helping visitors to rediscover their cultural heritage. To celebrate canton Bern’s 650th anniversary as part of the Swiss Confederation, the city’s historical museum has set up the usual themed exhibitions.
Source: NZZ Online Date: 22 Aug 2003
Vandal Castle: Vandals have once again wreaked havoc at Wakefield's most treasured tourist attraction. The public have been left counting the cost after 17 stainless steel panels were stolen from the bridge at Sandal Castle. This latest mindless act at the medieval site has forced the temporary closure of the bailey and moat to public ahead of the busy bank holiday weekend. Local independent councillor Norman Hazell: "The panels had been specially made to order to enable people to walk across."
Source: Wakefield Today Date: 22 Aug 2003
Rare Sword to go on Display in Town: A rare 7th Century gold sword mount is to go on display in the town where it was unearthed by a treasure hunter. The £20,000 gold and garnet mount, which measures barely 14mm square and is a mere 11mm high, was found in the Bury St Edmunds area by a metal detector enthusiast sweeping the earth for precious artefacts.
Source: East Anglian Daily Times Date: 21 Aug 2003
Skulls Take Secrets Back to the Grave: The secrets of 14 people who lived and died on Rathlin Island more than 1,000 years ago were buried with them yesterday. Mystery surrounds the skull remains which were unearthed by workmen carrying out renovation work at St Thomas' church. The tradesmen were stopped in their tracks when they unearthed the skulls beneath a wooden floor.
Source: ic Northern Ireland Date: 21 Aug 2003
Society Fears for Future of Ancient Barn: The fate of a 630-year-old barn in St Albans was discussed by worried members of St Albans Civic Society and representatives of the Gorhambury Estate during a private meeting on Monday, August 18. The Grade II listed Kingsbury Barn, owned by Lord Verulam's estate, sits on a site off Branch Road, in St Michael's village. The site is leased to Express Dairies, which closed its milk depot in May, until next month. There has been speculation that the site might be used for housing.
Source: This is Hertfordshire Date: 21 Aug 2003
Ancient Building on the Move: A major engineering project has moved part of Boston's history. The 15th Century Pescod Hall is in the process of being transported to a new location, 20 metres away. Work to move the hall, a Grade II listed building and former merchant's house, started on Tuesday. It has been lifted onto two computer-operated trailers and moved across a precinct in advance of the area being developed.
Source: BBC News Date: 20 Aug 2003
Ancient Medieval City of Hasankeyf Coming to Light: One of the world’s only intact medieval cities’ Hasankeyf, faces a dark fate of being inundated beneath the waters of a dam. Archaeologists have resumed excavations on the ancient city of Hasankeyf, located in the south eastern Turkish province of Mardin, fighting against time before construction of a dam on the nearby Tigris River threatens to flood the site.
Source: NTV MSNBC Date: 20 Aug 2003
Attack on Ship Rescue 'Folly': The decision not to save sections of a medieval ship found in south Wales has been described as "folly" by an AM. William Graham, the AM for south east Wales, spoke out after it was revealed that parts of the Tudor warship, the Mary Rose, have been found this week - 20 years after the vessel was raised. He said that the decision by Newport Council not to save parts of a 15th Century vessel found during the construction of a new arts centre in the city in June 2002 has "deprived" the city.
Source: BBC News Date: 20 Aug 2003
Bern Relives its Medieval Past: Bern is celebrating 650 years in the Swiss Confederation with a week-long medieval festival. The grounds around the city’s history museum have been turned into a 15th century village, complete with jousting knights and tumbling fools. The project is the brainchild of the museum’s director, Peter Jezler, who has dreamt for years of bringing history to life in this way.
Source: NZZ Online Date: 20 Aug 2003
Dig Unearths Old Secrets: An amateur archaeological dig in King's Stanley has unearthed 800 years of secrets. Trenches have been reopened in an orchard next to St Georges Church on the site of a large 12th century dwelling - complete with kitchens, stables and even a moat. The dig was started more than 30 years ago by amateur archaeologist David Evans, but work commitments forced him to close the site in 1972.
Source: This is Shroud Date: 20 Aug 2003
Saxon Find Goes on Display: A newly discovered piece of Saxon silver will soon be on display at the Norris Museum in St Ives. The object is a "hooked tag", dating from approximately AD900. It was discovered during an archaeological dig at Stukeley Road, Huntingdon, on land that was about to be used for building homes. The owner of the site, Nene Housing Society Ltd, has given the artefact to the Norris Museum.
Source: The Hunts Post Date: 20 Aug 2003
Secrets of the Ancients Revealed: An independent archaeological dig on the Welsh border has emerged as one of Britain's most important excavations. Experts working on farmland alongside the Duke of Westminster's Eaton estate, have discovered evidence of human activity dating back 9,000 years. They have unearthed five Bronze Age burial mounds, two Roman buildings and a medieval chapel and cemetery, unique in the UK.
Source: ic North Wales Date: 20 Aug 2003
Bypass Site Yields Historical Treasures: The site of the planned Dundalk bypass has yielded archaeological treasures dating back thousands of years, it emerged today. The Irish Archaelogical Consultancy is digging beneath the proposed route of the Dundalk western bypass which, when completed, would complete a network of high-quality road stretching from Dublin to the border. Archaeologists have uncovered settlements from the Neolithic (3000-2000 BC) and Bronze Ages (1400-700 BC) as well as more recent findings such as disused railways.
Source: Belfast Telegraph Date: 19 Aug 2003
Divers 'Find Missing Piece' in Mary Rose Jigsaw: Divers could have found the front section of the Tudor warship Mary Rose, marine archaeologists have confirmed. Experts, who have been diving down to the wreck off Portsmouth for the last month, have excavated a five-metre-long piece of wood which they believe is the front stem of the ship's keel.
Source: Ananova Date: 18 Aug 2003
In Pictures: New Mary Rose find: Photos from the Mary Rose excavation site.
Source: BBC News Date: 18 Aug 2003
Mary Rose Divers' 'Exciting' Find: Experts working on the site of the Mary Rose say they have uncovered the front section of the Tudor warship. Divers have excavated a five-metre-long piece of wood, which they believe is the front stem of the vessel's keel. Archaeologists believe this stem could be attached to the front section, the bowcastle, of the ship which sunk in 1545.
Source: BBC News Date: 18 Aug 2003
New Discovery at Mary Rose Site: Marine archaeologists will reveal details on Monday of a "significant find" on the wreck site of the Tudor warship Mary Rose. Divers have been at the site for a month looking for more pieces of the ship, which was raised in 1982 after 437 years under the sea off Portsmouth.
Source: BBC News Date: 17 Aug 2003
The Big One is Coming: The earthquake of January 18, 749, is thought to be one of the strongest ever to hit the Middle East. Till recently, researchers knew about the quake only from historical sources. A Coptic priest from Alexandria reported that support beams in houses in Egypt had shifted; a Syrian priest wrote that a village in the region of Mount Tavor had moved a distance of four miles; while other sources spoke of huge tidal waves in the Mediterranean Sea, of Damascus shaking for a few days, and of smaller cities and towns being swallowed up in the earth.
Source: Haaretz Date: 17 Aug 2003
Clan Chief Yearns for Return of Castle: Simon Fraser may soon have his attention focused on a single room, but in the longer term his heart is set on a much more prestigious property. Next week, the 25th Lord Lovat and chief of the Lovat Fraser clan will perform one of his official duties when he opens the Fraser Room, a small museum in Beauly, the clan’s historic heartland. It will bring the young chief, now a stockbroker in London, back to the land of his forefathers and where he eventually wants to set up a permanent home.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 16 Aug 2003
Royal Seal is Seen For First Time: The first exclusive photographs of Tenbury's Great Seal, said to have been attached to the market town's Royal Charter, is seen in the safe hands of chairman of The Bailey Charity, Frank Crisp. It shows Henry III enthroned as king. Discovered in a cigar box at the bottom of the heavy metal chest and recently handed over to the charity trustees, it is being kept in a secure environment until a decision can be made on its future.
Source: This is Tenbury Wells Date: 16 Aug 2003
The Getty Emerges as an Important Repository of Early Stained Glass: Highlights from the Getty’s new collection of medieval and Renaissance stained glass will be presented in the debut exhibition "Images in Light: Newly Acquired Stained Glass", at the Getty Center, October 28, 2003–April 4, 2004. With the Getty’s recent addition of this group of objects, Los Angeles has become one of the most important cities in the country for the study of early stained glass.
Source: Art Musuem Network News Date: 15 Aug 2003
Castle Mound Plans Moat-er Forward: The remains of Bedford's demolished castle are set for a makeover as plans to create a new landmark in the town moat-er forward. Castle Mound on the Embankment has languished for years as a hangout for drinkers, with its pathways crumbling and even a car abandoned off-road in its grounds. But a scheme to return the site to its former glory with impressive views over the river is edging nearer, with special permission to develop the protected ancient monument now in the bag.
Source: Bedford Today Date: 13 Aug 2003
Experts Uncover Castle Secrets: The Archaeological dig at Carmarthen Castle could prove to be of national importance. For over nine weeks a team from Llandeilo-based Cambrian Archaeology have spent endless hours digging and sifting through the earth at the medieval castle for time-locked clues into life of Carmarthen's past. And in the last week, they have made some significant discoveries. Probably the earliest of the man-made structure - the edge of the moat - was found.
Source: Carmarthen Journal Date: 13 Aug 2003
Remains of Viking Warrior Uncovered in Dublin: Archaeologists said Tuesday they had uncovered the remains of a Viking warrior during excavations on a building site in the Irish capital. A skeleton was found with an iron shield and what appeared to be a dagger in a shallow grave near the centre of Dublin, according to archaeologist Linzi Simpson. The site is near the ninth century settlement of Dubh Linn, a Gaelic phrase denoting "black pool", from which Dublin gets its name.
Source: Pro Log Date: 13 Aug 2003
Archaelogists Unearth Ancient Shrine: A 12th century relic discovered in Northern Ireland has been described by a leading archaeologist as the "find of his life". Brian Williams, joint excavation director of the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS), found the rare bronze bell shrine during a dig near Ballycastle, County Antrim. "I was digging in a pit and the soil just fell away from it and I could see the side of it and realised immediately it was going to be a very important piece.
Source: BBC News Date: 12 Aug 2003
12th Century Relic 'Greatest Find' of Archaeologist's Life: A 12th century holy relic discovered in Northern Ireland was today described by a leading archaeologist as the greatest find of his life. Brian Williams, joint excavation director of the Environment and Heritage Service (EHS), came across the extremely rare and beautiful bronze bell shrine during a dig near Ballycastle, Co Antrim. He said: ``I was digging in a pit and the soil just fell away from it and I could see the side of it and realised immediately it was going to be a very important piece.
Source: U.tv Date: 11 Aug 2003
Ancient Ship May Have Been Kingmaker's Pirated Booty: A 15th-century ship discovered last year in the mud of a building site in south Wales may have belonged to Warwick the Kingmaker, once one of England's most powerful men. Archaeologists believe the ship may have been captured from the Portuguese by pirates acting for Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick, a significant figure in the Wars of the Roses.
Source: Telegraph Date: 11 Aug 2003
Bronze Relic is One of Northern Ireland's Most Important Ever Finds: Recent excavations at a site in County Antrim, Northern Ireland have unearthed what archaeologists are describing as one of the most significant objects ever to be found in the country. A bronze bell shrine, dating back to between 1180 and 1200 AD has been uncovered during a dig at Drumadoon near Ballycastle. One of only eight such objects currently known to exist in Ireland, the shrine is the first to be found by archaeologists.
Source: 24 Hour Museum Date: 11 Aug 2003
Digging into Town's Past: Digging works for a new car park in Dumbarton have thrown up a surprise. Old items dating back as far as the 14th century have been uncovered under grassland at Risk Street. A team of archaeologists made the discovery last week while assisting West Dunbartonshire Council and the Town Centres Initiative in its excavation works for an extended car park.
Source: This is Dumbartonshire Date: 11 Aug 2003
One of the Most Significant Archaeological Finds in Ireland Goes on Display: A recent archaeological dig by DOE’s Environment and Heritage Service (EHS) and the Centre for Archaeological fieldwork at Queen’s University, has lead to the discovery of one of the most important holy relics ever found on an excavation in Ireland. The excavation at Drumadoon near Ballycastle saw the discovery of a rare and most remarkable object. It is a bronze bell shrine of the Romanesque period and dates between AD 1180 and 1200.
Source: Northern Ireland Executive Date: 11 Aug 2003
Our Heritage Under Sail: With the wind in her sails and her pennants flying, Newport's medieval ship makes a stunning sight on the River Usk. This stunning painting shows the 15th-century ship as she sails close to Newport Castle. The skill of Newport artist Paul Deacon brings the ship to life in the painting, which shows the one-mast ship turning by a wooden bridge across the River Usk.
Source: This is Gwent Date: 11 Aug 2003
Castle Puts on Tales of Two Kings: The legends of two ancient Celtic kings will be retold at Stokesay Castle in Shropshire over the Bank Holiday weekend. The Blue Chicken Theatre Company is putting on two plays that take audiences back to the days of Roman and Saxon invasions. Both performances feature fast-moving drama, masks, puppetry and audience participation.
Source: BBC News Date: 10 Aug 2003
Mystery of Newport's Mediaeval Ship: A medieval ship older than the Mary Rose may have been a Portuguese vessel captured by pirates, an expert said today. The 15th century ship was discovered in June last year during the construction of a theatre and arts centre on the banks of the River Usk in Newport, South Wales. Now the mystery of who the ship belonged to and why it was in Newport may be close to being solved. Bob Trett, chairman of the trustees of Glamorgan Gwent Archaeological Trust, believes it may have been part of a fleet belonging to the Earl of Warwick.
Source: ic Wales Date: 10 Aug 2003
Old London Calling: The Clerkenwell Tales, by Peter Ackroyd. Religious extremism, suicide bombings and an invading army known only through a veil of propaganda and conspiracy theories: although such things may seem a present and frightening reality, the closest many of us have come to them is by reading about them at a distance of hundreds of miles. In Peter Ackroyd's latest book, we come closer than ever before to experiencing this world for ourselves, although this time at a distance not of miles, but of 600 years.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 10 Aug 2003
US Bid to Save Gaelic Culture … From Scots: As if the Clearances were not bad enough, the Highland calamity continues to be compounded by a view of the glens as home to woad-painted savages, lawless thugs and bloodthirsty MacMafiosi. It is time to get real about genuine Highland heritage in the post-Braveheart era, and to recognise that Gaelic culture was at the forefront of literature, medicine and European law long before English began to crawl from the linguistic slime and evolve out of Anglo-Saxon.
Source: Sunday Herald Date: 10 Aug 2003
Expert Praises Castle Decision Process: The process of deciding on plans for one of Jersey's oldest and most famous landmarks has been praised by a UK expert on historic monuments. The island's Planning Committee approved the majority of proposals for Mont Orgueil Castle on Thursday after months of consultation and debate.
Source: BBC News Date: 9 Aug 2003
Preserving Pages in Charlottesville: The Rare Book School at the University of Virginia is the only one if its kind in the United States. NPR's Jacki Lyden took a tour of the school's collection, and talked with elite scholars attending week-long sessions to learn more about the preservation and art of rare books.
Source: NPR Date: 9 Aug 2003
Quick Work Needed at Ancient Site: Archaeologists have less than a week to complete their work on the site of a mediaeval monastery it took 20 years to locate. The foundation stones of St Guthlac's Priory, which dates back to the 12th Century, were recently discovered underneath land at Hereford County Hospital. About 20 skeletons, believed to be of mediaeval monks, were also uncovered.
Source: BBC News Date: 9 Aug 2003
The Crusades: the Consequences and the Comparisons: For most people living in the modern day Middle East, the Crusades are more than just a period in medieval history. The two hundred years of conflict between European invaders and the various Muslim princedoms are used as a metaphor to describe, morally judge or even distort many political events. The repetitive colonial encounters between Arabs and Europeans that followed the Crusades kept the memory alive.
Source: Daily Star, Lebanon Date: 9 Aug 2003
The Latest in Viking Fashion?: It wasn't quite haute couture and the models weren't exactly Givenchy. But the clothes were chic, or at least fashionable in their time -- thousands of years ago. Models in hides, wool and coarse linen strutted the Viking catwalk Saturday, showing off the "latest" in prehistoric and medieval fashion at an outdoor museum near this small town, 25 miles west of the capital, Copenhagen.
Source: CNN Date: 9 Aug 2003
Castle Plans Receive Approval: The majority of proposals to restore one of Jersey's oldest and most famous landmarks have been approved by the island's Planning Committee. Months of consultation and debate about Jersey Heritage Trust's £3m plans for Mont Orgueil Castle came to a conclusion at a public meeting. A controversial plan to put a roof over the Tudor Great Hall was approved.
Source: BBC News Date: 8 Aug 2003
How to Mean Well and Give Grave Offence: When Lancashire farmer Peter Bennett bought a remote smallholding in the Scottish Borders, he hoped to provide a place of peaceful, Christian retreat. Instead, he sparked a holy war.
Source: Telegraph Date: 8 Aug 2003
Legendary King the Subject of Discussion: An international conference is being held in Winchester next year to explore the various representations throughout history of one of our greatest mythical characters. King Arthur will be up for discussion at King Alfred's College in 2004 and the event has already received interest from academics as far a field as the USA, Russia, Europe and the Philippines.
Source: This is Southampton Date: 8 Aug 2003
Medieval Skeletons Discovered at Library: A major medieval excavation is underway in the centre of St Andrews after workers involved in a major refurbishment project made a gruesome discovery. Skeletal remains dating back to the early 15th Century were uncovered beneath the town's public library as a new disabled access lift was being installed.
Source: Fife On-line Date: 8 Aug 2003
Mont Orgueil: Truce is Called: The States-funded restoration project for Mont Orgueil Castle was approved by the Environment and Public Services Committee yesterday. Three years after the Jersey Heritage Trust's proposals to spend £3 million of public money ignited a row that has attracted national attention, plans for more than 120 items of work have been approved in principle. These include gardens, a new ticket office and a café.
Source: Jersey Evening Post Date: 8 Aug 2003
Review: The Mysteries: Coventry's old Cathedral provides an atmospheric backdrop for the latest Mystery Plays. Performed since medieval times, these interpretations of old and new testament stories are an important part of Coventry's heritage and famous throughout the world. This year, the Belgrade has reinforced its links with Irish theatre by involving Macnas and a community cast from Galway.
Source: ic Coventry Date: 8 Aug 2003
Royal Seal Turns Up in a Tin Box: A Royal Seal -- identified as that of Henry III -- has been discovered in a big metal box containing letters and documents relating to the Baylie Charity, custodians of Tenbury's Round Market. Investigations show it could be the original Great Seal attached to the charter given to the town by King Henry in the 13th century. It is on the Charter Roll of Henry III held by the Office of the Master of the Rolls. The Sovereign enthroned is on the front of the seal and on the reverse a coat of arms instead of the king in battle armour.
Source: This is Tenbury Wells Date: 8 Aug 2003
Scientific Muckraking Makes a City Privy to its Past: The filth and waste of generations past is giving Aberdonians a fascinating insight into medi-eval life in the city. Muck from middens and cesspits has been microscopically analysed and has helped archaeologists build up a detailed picture of life in Aberdeen several centuries ago. Samples from historic excavation sites have been sent to a laboratory at York University, where beetles, seeds, pollen, parasite eggs, tiny animal and fish bones, and minute fragments of leather and textiles have been extracted.
Source: The Herald Date: 8 Aug 2003
Yarmouth's Town-Wall Tower to Close: The finance-driven world of 'best value' has led to the closure of Yarmouth's only accessible town-wall tower. Medieval North West Tower has shut to the public ending an 11-year spell as a Broads Authority information centre and museum. Authority spokeswoman Hilary Franzen said: "Unfortunately we have given up the lease. We just did not have enough people going through it. It just seems to be too much off the beaten track. People just weren't visiting it.
Source: EDP 24 Date: 8 Aug 2003
Bathing Fun Like in the Middle Ages: We refresh ourselves in the Totengässlein in Basel in a cool medieval atmosphere: Bathing fun like in the Middle Ages! No, it hasn’t yet become a tradition. But almost. For this is the second time already that Michi Kessler and his pill makers invite people to the dream court of the Pharmacy–Historical Museum. People are invited to take a bath. Gigantic wooden tubs are ready – but there is also a rocking tub from Berlin, which will make sea waves if handled properly. Then there are sitting tubs, a cool well trough, which will cool you down fabulously – and all this is accompanied by live medieval music.
Source: Basler Zeitung Date: 7 Aug 2003
Keep York Mystery Plays Alive: The Evening Press has launched a major campaign to keep York’s world-famous Mystery Plays alive. Readers responded with dismay and outrage ever since it was revealed that the Plays will not be staged next year, with no major production in prospect until at least 2010 – and quite possibly not even then. They have been shocked that this historic city could contemplate abandoning an artistic, spiritual and community tradition which stretches back to 1951 and attracts visitors from all over the globe, as well as involving hundreds of local actors, young and old.
Source: Evening Press Date: 7 Aug 2003
Time Team Finds Vault: Archaeologists have an unearthed a large 18th century brick vault under Lichfield Cathedral which probably belonged to an important family. Workers have also discovered two other burials of similar age along with a number of medieval burials - one which could have belonged to a priest. The finds are from a dig in the nave which is taking place before a pit is dug to install a new altar platform
Source: Express and Star Date: 7 Aug 2003
York Mystery Plays Cancelled in 2004?: The Evening Press in York, horrified that cash problems may prevent the city's world-famous mystery plays from being produced in 2004, has launched a campaign to save the dramas originally produced on wagons by craft guilds. The plays are usually performed in the Museum Gardens every four years, but the tradition is now under threat. "Readers responded with dismay and outrage ever since it was revealed that the plays will not be staged next year, with no major production in prospect until at least 2010 - and quite possibly not even then," the paper reported. [Editor's note: scroll down until you reach the section entitled Play Mystery.]
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 7 Aug 2003
Huge Hoard of Viking-Age Silver Unearthed on the Isle of Man: A hoard of Viking-age silver, considered by experts to be of international importance has been unearthed on the Isle of Man by a metal detectorist. Uncovered in March this year by detectorist Andy Whewell, the collection is comprised of 464 coins, 25 ingots and a broken armlet, all dating back to around 1020 AD. The hoard has now been declared Treasure by the island's High Bailiff and will go on display at the Manx Museum once further research and conservation work has been carried out.
Source: 24 Hour Museum Date: 6 Aug 2003
Mystery of Newport's Mediaeval Ship: A medieval ship older than the Mary Rose may have been a Portuguese vessel captured by pirates, an expert said today. The 15th century ship was discovered in June last year during the construction of a theatre and arts centre on the banks of the River Usk in Newport, South Wales. Now the mystery of who the ship belonged to and why it was in Newport may be close to being solved.
Source: ic Wales Date: 5 Aug 2003
Revealed: Secrets of Our Ship: EXPERTS believe they have uncovered the identity of the owner of Newport's medieval ship. The Gwent and Glamorgan Archaeological Trust (GGAT), who extracted the ship from the mud of the bank of the River Usk at the site of the new theatre and arts centre but has since been in a £100,000 dispute with Newport council, say they believe the ship was a Portuguese vessel - captured and brought to South Wales by pirates. And they say they believe the owner of the ship was a key figure in medieval politics - the Earl of Warwick.
Source: This is Gwent Date: 5 Aug 2003
Rescued Castle to Open its Doors: One of Scotland’s hidden architectural gems, the historic Guthrie Castle in Angus, saved from property developers and restored to its former glory, is to be opened to the public. The ancient seat of Clan Guthrie, the castle was built in 1468 by Sir David Guthrie, Lord Treasurer and Armour Bearer to King James III.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 4 Aug 2003
Ship's Recoverers Out to Sue Council: The archaeological trust that recovered Newport's medieval ship will this week issue a writ against the city council, claiming it is still owed more than £100,000 for the work. The Argus reported at the beginning of March that the Gwent and Glamorgan Archaeological Trust (GGAT) was in dispute with the council over £102,000 for work done after being called in to remove the15th-century ship's remains from the muddy banks of the River Usk.
Source: This is Gwent Date: 4 Aug 2003
King Erik: Dead in Cyprus, But Where’s the Body?: One of Denmark's most beloved monarchs - crusader King Erik Ejegod - Erik the Evergood - died in Cyprus 900 years ago this summer - an event remembered seemingly by only a tiny group of Danes who attended a memorial service in Paphos, in the southwest of the eastern Mediterranean island. Historians still disagree about the exact location of the king's actual grave - but the fact that he died in Paphos, Cyprus on his way to the Holy Land is not contested.
Source: Copenhagen Post Date: 1 Aug 2003
Local Woman Thought Treasure Piece Was ‘a Bit of Old Tat’: One Eddleston woman’s desire to have her lucky find made into a brooch for herself has been cut short by the National Museum of Scotland. Louise Forsyth came across an unusual looking metal ring in a her horse’s paddock some time ago. And though she kept a hold of it in her home with the intention of wearing it herself someday, the mother of two was blissfully unaware that she had managed to get her hands on a medieval brooch dating back around 700 years.
Source: Peeblesshire News Date: 1 Aug 2003
Relics Reveal a Past Wealth: Historic artefacts dating back to the Middle Ages have been unearthed on Newcastle's Quayside. An archaeological dig behind the Cooperage pub has unearthed an unusually well-preserved wooden bowl and various pieces of pottery from the 14th and 15th Centuries. And an underground waterway from the late medieval or Tudor period was also uncovered by site archaeologist Percival Turnbull.
Source: ic Newcastle Date: 1 Aug 2003
'Saxons' March to Disprove History: History records that King Harold and his army took two days to walk from London to the site of defeat in the Battle of Hastings in 1066. But a military expert from Kent says there is no way the Saxons could have marched the 58 miles that quickly with their armour and equipment. So Dave Kinsey - and his family - are walking about half the distance in full Saxon costume in a bid to prove history is wrong.
Source: BBC News Date: 31 Jul 2003
Castle Battle Reigns: The battle is continuing to secure the future of a medieval fortress in Swansea. The walls of Oystermouth Castle are crumbling away and a £50,000 survey was carried out last year to investigate the extent of the damage. Progress is now being made in an attempt to gather funds for repair and restoration work which aims to bolster the castle as a tourism attraction and keep it standing for another 800 years. Welsh ancient monument watchdog Cadw is supporting the plans to safeguard the future of the 12th Century building which was once home to the Lords of Gower.
Source: South Wales Evening Post Date: 31 Jul 2003
Pru Helps Revive Godiva Feast Day: A Medieval celebration of Coventry's most famous daughter is to be revived for the first time since the Middle Ages. In the 15th century, when Coventry's woollen trade was failing, city traders celebrated the life of Lady Godiva with the feast of "Dame Godyver Daye" held on the anniversary of her death - September 10. Now the feast is to be revived at the city's historic guildhall with a banquet for about 150 people on the same date.
Source: ic Coventry Date: 31 Jul 2003
Bones Shock at Grave Yard: A Teesside churchyard wants to close for new burials after the vicar found ancient human bones appearing on the surface. It is believed burials have taken place in the old St Peter and St Paul's church in Stainton village since mediaeval times, leading to the ground becoming full to capacity. The church's Parochial Council has now applied to the Home Office to close its churchyard for burials.
Source: ic Teesside Date: 30 Jul 2003
Morpeth Castle Not Longer at Risk: The number of Buildings at Risk in the Borough has been whittled down to four, with Morpeth Castle now off the critical list. Those carried over on to English Heritage's 2003 Register were Cockle Park Tower at Hebron, the Pithead Baths at Lynemouth Colliery, Mitford Castle and Newminster Abbey. Cockle Park Tower is a 16th Century Grade I Listed building in 'very bad' condition. The report summary describes structural problems and lack of maintenance.
Source: Morpeth Today Date: 29 Jul 2003
Church's Mystery Skeletons May Have Been Priests: The six skeletons found last week beneath the floorboards of a Church of Scotland parish church could be the bones of Roman Catholic priests. This is the opinion of Canon Bernard Canning, a Catholic historian and parish priest of St Thomas’s, in Neilston, Renfrewshire. The find was made by workers on the major refurbishment programme at the parish church in Neilston, which has been a place of prayer or a site of a church for the past 1,000 years.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 26 Jul 2003
Farmers Wrecking Ancient Sites: A campaign launched 133 years ago finally resulted yesterday in a demand by archaeologists to end the trashing of 8,000 years of British history, through successive governments permitting and even encouraging farmers to plough archaeologically sensitive land. "This is not a new story, which in a sense makes it an even bigger story," Simon Thurley, chief executive of English Heritage, said yesterday.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 26 Jul 2003
Keeping it in the Family: A Huddersfield telecoms expert is determined to put his family on the map after tracing their history back to 997AD. Robert Broadbent, from Launds, Pole Moor, has spent the last 20 years researching 1,000 years of his past. The telecoms designer has used both public and private documents to work out he is the 38th generation of the Broadbent family. He said he carried out the task to set the record straight about the history of the Colne Valley.
Source: BBC News Date: 26 Jul 2003
Ukraine's Knights and Damsels Relive Battle: The French fortress of Orleans is standing firm in the face of an English onslaught. But the defenders are on their last legs and desperately need a hero. Fires in the English camp are burning all night, as foreign mercenaries mingle with monks and noble damsels in the queue for freshly baked pancakes, one gold coin a piece. The Hundred Years War is raging on - not far from the Ukrainian capital Kiev.
Source: BBC News Date: 26 Jul 2003
Ancient History Damaged by Farmers: Thousands of archaeological sites are being damaged by farmers, English Heritage has warned. Ploughs had damaged or destroyed valuable sites, including Neolithic long barrows, Roman villas, Anglo-Saxon cemeteries and medieval field systems. English Heritage wants for a new strategy to protect sites but said farmers were not to blame.
Source: BBC News Date: 25 Jul 2003
Canoe - as Precious as Moon Rock: It does not look remotely shipshape but at over 1200 years old it has every right to be a bit battered. This week this unpromising dug-out canoe was described as "the maritime equivalent of moon-rock" after scientists at Queen's University Belfast revealed it dated from 720 AD – much earlier than expected. James Steward, curator of Great Yarmouth's maritime collections, said: "The boat itself I am sure in time will become an icon for the maritime heritage of the borough.
Source: EDP 24 Date: 25 Jul 2003
Relics are Uncovered in Quay Dig: Artefacts dating back to the 15th Century have been uncovered during an archaeological dig on Newcastle's Quayside. The dig, which precedes work on the Merchants Quay housing development and forms part of the planning consent, has unearthed an unusually well preserved wooden bowl and various pieces of 15th Century pottery. A culvert belonging to the late medieval or Tudor period has also been discovered.
Source: The Northern Echo Date: 25 Jul 2003
Scouts Help Test-Fire Siege Engine: Dursley Scouts have helped test the firing power of a mediaeval weapon that will soon be installed in a museum in Switzerland. Members of 1st Dursley group helped test the range of a model trebuchet for its Dursley-based constructor, Paul Denney. Siege engines like the trebuchet were invented in China more than 1,000 years ago and were later used in battles all over Europe to hurl missiles, fireballs, and even prisoners over the walls of a castle. The advent of cannon in the Middle Ages gradually made it obsolete.
Source: This is the South Cotswolds Date: 25 Jul 2003
Ancient Town Walls at Risk, Says Report: Ludlow's rundown town walls are among more than 180 West Midlands structures branded as at risk through decay, despite being among of the country's most important listed buildings. Several south Shropshire buildings figure in English Heritage's 2003 national Register of Buildings at Risk, which reveals the scale of the challenge to preserve the UK's historic environment.
Source: This is Ludlow Date: 24 Jul 2003
Berwick Comes Under Siege Again!: Around 4000 people took up the invitation to step back in time at the weekend and witness a reconstruction of one of the turning points in Berwick's past. The living history events on Saturday and Sunday aimed to recreate the Great Siege of Berwick in 1333 and the Battle of Halidon Hill, which brought it to a end.
Source: Berwick Today Date: 24 Jul 2003
Blaze Shuts Ancient Church for Months: A medieval church that was severely damaged by fire will be closed for at least six months, it was revealed yesterday. St Brannock's Church in Braunton, North Devon, was badly damaged on Tuesday afternoon when fire spread from the organ area and into the roof. The 16th century Snow Gallery, which housed the organ pipes, has been completely destroyed. A large antique Bible has been badly damaged, as have three wooden pews.
Source: This Is Devon Date: 24 Jul 2003
It's 1314 - The Sequel: Would-be medieval soldiers are to invade Scotland for Battle of Bannockburn II. Around 5000 spectators are expected to watch hundreds of archers, swordsmen and pikemen re- enact Robert The Bruce's famous 1314 victory over the English. The parade, battle and entertainments will be held at the battle site near Stirling on September 20 and 21.
Source: Daily Record Date: 24 Jul 2003
Monks' Remains Laid to Rest After 900 Years: The remains of several monks have been buried in Scartho Cemetery - almost 900 years after they were first interred. Nearly 100 people paid their last respects during a Requiem Mass held at St Mary's Church, Grimsby, before they were buried for a second time. The collection of bones was unearthed 10 years ago at a house in Lambert Road, Grimsby, when the owners were extending their garage. Another set of remains was also found on the site of the original Augustine Cemetery in Abbotsway.
Source: Grimsby Telegraph Date: 24 Jul 2003
World's Most Valuable Book on Internet: The University of Texas has put its entire two-volume Gutenberg Bible on the Internet, making it easier for scholars and the public to browse one of the world's most valuable books. "Just as Johann Gutenberg made knowledge more accessible with the invention of the printing process, this digitization project continues that legacy," said Richard Oram, head librarian at the university's Harry Ransom Center, one of the world's top cultural archives.
Source: CNN Date: 23 Jul 2003
Jewish Yad Avshalom Revealed as a Christian Shrine From Byzantine Era: The historic Yad Avshalom monument in Jerusalem's Kidron Valley, revered for centuries as a Jewish shrine, was also a Christian holy place in the fourth century, new evidence has revealed. A fourth-century inscription on one of the walls near the monument, recently uncovered by chance, marks the site as the burial place of the Temple priest Zachariah, the father of John the Baptist who baptized Jesus.
Source: Ha'aretz Date: 22 Jul 2003
Ancient Headache Cures Proven Effective: Many ancient headache treatments, recorded by Persian physicians, have been proven in modern-day studies to be effective pain relievers according to a new German report. Medieval Persian texts revealing that opium and cannabis were often used, as well as oil from willow trees - from which aspirin was derived centuries later - suggest that many other such remedies should be scientifically tested for therapeutic value as well, says Dr Ali Gorji, of the Institute for Physiology, Munster University, in Germany, in a report in the journal Trends in Pharmacological Sciences.
Source: ABC News Australia Date: 21 Jul 2003
DNA Used in Attempt to Solve Christian Mystery: Genetic fingerprinting might soon clear up an ancient Christian mystery - the origins of medieval parchments and even the Canterbury Gospels, thought to have arrived in Britain in 579AD. Cambridge scientists plan to study DNA in parchments prepared from animal skins to trace where they came from.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 21 Jul 2003
New Tome on City Saint: A major book on the Winchester saint and bishop, Swithun, was launched, appropriately, at Wolvesey, the home of the present incumbent. A scholarly work, The Cult of St Swithun took 32 years to write. It is one of a series of publications resulting from the Winchester excavations in the 1960s. "I have been working on this for 32 years and am glad to see an end of it," smiled Michael Lapidge (61), the Canadian-born author of the 883-page book.
Source: This is Winchester Date: 21 Jul 2003
Time Team Turn Clock Back to Find Historical Riches: Channel 4 Television's Time Team has returned to the Staffordshire Moorlands site where they made a major discovery of a medieval iron works. The new probe was to establish if the 13th or 14th century bloomery at Oakamoor was water powered. If this is proved it would put the archaeological find in the major league.
Source: This is Staffordshire Date: 21 Jul 2003
Black Death Theories ... All Fall Down: In his 2001 book, In The Wake Of The Plague, Norman Cantor repeats the common claim that "Ring Around The Rosie" refers to the Black Death of the mid 1300s: "The origin of the rhyme is the flu-like symptoms, skin discolouring and mortality caused by bubonic plague." This is one well-accepted claim that's worth a closer look.
Source: Toronto Star Date: 20 Jul 2003
Archaeologists Unearth Unique Objects in Veliky Novgorod: Archaeologists unearthed a 14-th century oriental music instrument, while digging at excavation sites in Veliky Novgorod, which is the administrative center of Russia's north-western Novgorod region.
Source: Russian Information Agency Date: 19 Jul 2003
Ancient Manuscript on the Web: A 12th century manuscript featuring the tale of a liaison between one of Britain's early feminists and a monk has been reproduced on the internet. The rarely-viewed St Albans Psalter partly recounts the story of Christina of Markyate and her admirer, Abbot Geoffrey, in medieval times.
Source: BBC News Date: 18 Jul 2003
City's Historic Buildings Under Threat: A host of historic buildings in Coventry are badly neglected and need repairs to secure their long-term survival, a report says today. Nationally, the Buildings At Risk Register saw 98 outstanding historic buildings added to a list of 1,500 Grade I and II* heritage assets at risk from decay and neglect.
Source: ic Coventry Date: 18 Jul 2003
Glyndwr daughter's expo opens: A new exhibition at the National Library of Wales is celebrating the legacy of Owain Glyndwr's daughter. The expo at the Aberystwyth-based institution highlights the suffering of women and children in war by concentrating on the life of Catrin Glyndwr.
Source: BBC News Date: 18 Jul 2003
Your Vote Could Save Our Towers: Standing in the shadow of Norwich's famous cathedral, Derlyngton Tower has always been easy to overlook. But with cracks in the staircase, a leaking roof and other wear and tear which needs a cash injection of £90,000 to put right, the tower has today finally achieved recognition – but for all the wrong reasons.
Source: EDP 24 Date: 18 Jul 2003
Ballard Team Has High Hopes for Deep-Water ROV: Undersea explorer Robert Ballard has likened the ocean floor to a vast museum holding an unrivaled archaeological record of human history. This summer, as Ballard and a team of scientists embark on a 40-day expedtion to the Black Sea and Mediterranean, they will bring an exciting new tool for exploring this underwater realm.
Source: National Geographic Date: 16 Jul 2003
Plan Revealed to Save Old Chapel: Islanders' knowledge could be used to help conserve a rare 14th century chapel. During a meeting in the parish church yesterday, some 25 people with an interest in Ste Apolline’s Chapel in St Saviour’s heard how a conservation and management plan would best preserve the building and its unique wall paintings. Damp is threatening the frescos, which include the Last Supper.
Source: Guernsey Press Date: 16 Jul 2003
Unveiling of Ancient Prince Mural: A mural depicting the last days of an ancient Prince of Wales before his death at the hands of the English has been unveiled in Builth Wells. The 40 feet square mural shows the final days of Llywelyn ap Gruffydd before he was ambushed and killed at Cilmeri, two miles from the town on 11 December, 1282.
Source: BBC News Date: 16 Jul 2003
Britain Lays Claim to Lasagne: Italy may be a land of lazy lunches and sun-kissed siestas, but challenge its reputation for home-grown cuisine at your peril. With the Battle of Parma Ham not two months over the nation is facing an even more audacious claim. Lasagne is British. It's so British the court of Richard II was making it in the 14th Century and most likely serving it up to ravenous knights in oak-panelled banqueting halls.
Source: BBC News Date: 15 Jul 2003
Medieval Scholars Strike Back: More than 1,300 medieval historians launch a counter-attack today on the notion that their field is merely "an intellectual adornment" - underlining the point by firing turnips from a 12th-century weapon of mass destruction. The missiles from a replica trebuchet siege engine will sail over Leeds University during a break in debates on subjects remorselessly relevant to the modern world, including exaggerated claims of enemy strength by monarchs hell-bent on war.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 15 Jul 2003
Everything is Illuminated: The English, historically some of the most enthusiastic collectors of the art of others, can sometimes be quite amazingly neglectful of their own indigenous artistic heritage. When preparing his book on English churches, Simon Jenkins was astonished to discover how ignorant even his most cultured friends tended to be about the fabulous medieval craftsmanship that lies scattered around rural England.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 12 Jul 2003
Health Warning Over Spread of Deadly Hemlock: New colonies of hemlock, the deadly plant which poisoned the Greek philosopher Socrates in 399BC, are spreading southwards through Midlothian, according to a leading archaeological botanist.... The excavations at Soutra by Dr Moffat and his team over a 17-year period have demonstrated how Augustinian monks who ran the hospital were using controlled doses of hemlock and other plants to anaesthetise patients prior to surgery and amputation. But now he is concerned the robust, plants will pose a health and environmental hazard if their progress continues unchecked.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 12 Jul 2003
Pieces of Wales Up For Sale: There is a rare chance to buy a little bit of Wales for anyone who wants just that. Seven registered commons - one a site of special scientific interest - in mid Wales are up for grabs. The Powis Castle Estate - famed for the redbrick castle and fine gardens near Welshpool - is selling the freehold of the commons, and another in Shropshire, after centuries of ownership.
Source: BBC News Date: 12 Jul 2003
Warning Over Castle Plan Go-Ahead: A leading campaigner against controversial redevelopment plans for Dudley Castle has warned that the town's people will not forgive the council's leaders if they give the scheme the go-ahead. Doug Davies, of the Friends of Dudley Castle, has said the £100 million scheme for the site would make the medieval fortress resemble the Merry Hill shopping centre.
Source: Express and Star Date: 12 Jul 2003
Castle Events will Mark Eve of Battle: Stafford Castle is taking part in celebrations for the 600th anniversary of the Battle of Shrewsbury this month. The castle, in Newport Road, Stafford, is inviting people to part in The Eve Of The Battle event over the weekend of July 19 and 20 to celebrate and commemorate the battle of 1403.
Source: Express and Star Date: 11 Jul 2003
Ancient Wine Press Unearthed in Jaffa Dig: An ancient winepress has been unearthed recently in archaeological excavations in Jaffa, the Antiquities Authority announced yesterday. The large press, which has a mosaic floor and wine storage vats, was found during a dig sponsored by the Tel Aviv municipality and the Israel Government Tourist Corporation, as part of a restoration project in the Jaffa flea market.
Source: Haaretz Daily Date: 10 Jul 2003
Mosque Signals Muslims' Return to Spain: It is more than 500 years since the Spanish reconquered the Iberian peninsula, killing or expelling every confessed Muslim who could be found and conclusively ending 800 years of Islamic rule. But on Thursday, a muezzin is calling Spanish Muslims to prayer at the first mosque to be opened in Granada since the reconquista, the culmination of a 22-year-old project that has been plagued by controversy.
Source: BBC News Date: 10 Jul 2003
Clan's Mountains and Castle May Become National Property: One of Scotland's best known mountain ranges and most historic castles could become national assets. Clan chief John MacLeod of MacLeod has confirmed he is in negotiations over the future of the Cuillin mountains and his clan seat Dunvegan Castle, on Skye.
Source: Ananova Date: 9 Jul 2003
Medieval Des Res - Needs Attention: For the price of a terraced home in Coventry you could be the proud owner of a castle and 20 acres of Warwickshire. The successful buyer will get a lot of land for £80,000 - but not much castle. In estate agent language there is "plenty of room for improvement". In plain English, you get a bit of old wall. But it is still an historic ruin, and all that remains of 14th century Baginton Castle.
Source: ic Coventry Date: 9 Jul 2003
Big Dig Reveals Medieval Treasures: For centuries, managed warrens were big business in Norfolk and Suffolk as rabbits were farmed for their meat and fur. So when the Time Team got the chance to explore a site where a medieval warrener's lodge may have once stood, they jumped at the chance.
Source: EDP24 Date: 7 Jul 2003
Castle Surrender Brought to Life: A ceremony is being held to mark the 600th anniversary of the English army's surrender of Carmarthen Castle to Owain Glyndwr. Town mayor Peter Hughes Griffiths will hand over the keys to the landmark to members of Embassy Glyndwr on Sunday as the events of 1403 are brought to life.
Source: BBC News Date: 6 Jul 2003
Inscription on Ancient Tomb Revealed: The discovery was a stroke of luck: the light of the setting sun hit an ancient tomb at just the right angle and revealed hints of a worn inscription, unnoticed for centuries, commemorating the father of John the Baptist. ``This is the tomb of Zachariah, martyr, very pious priest, father of John,'' the inscription of 47 Greek letters reads.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 6 Jul 2003
7th Century Village is Back on Map: To look at, it is no more than a common field forming part of the farming landscape in the heart of East Lothian. But the land near East Linton holds a secret beneath its soil. It contains the answer to an early medieval mystery, only solved after the accidental discovery of a 200-year-old map.
Source: Edinburgh Evening News Date: 5 Jul 2003
Crew Finds Medieval Cistern in Nazareth: A construction crew digging near a major Christian shrine in Nazareth, the boyhood town of Jesus, discovered a cistern that crusaders may have built 1,000 years ago, archaeologists said Friday. Archeologists from the Israel Antiquities Authority plan to excavate the site next week to learn more about the cistern, or underground water reservoir, that was unearthed Wednesday.
Source: AZ Central Date: 5 Jul 2003
Carrickmines Campaigners Vow to Challenge Govt Order: Campaigners hoping to preserve the ruins of Carrickmines Castle in south Co Dublin have expressed their disappointment at the Government's latest effort to destroy the remains.
Source: Ireland Online Date: 4 Jul 2003
Hi-Tech Imaging Could Reveal Lost Texts: A unique library of medieval manuscripts, devastated by fire during World War II and considered lost by scholars, could be restored using technology developed to study the surface of planets.
Source: BBC News Date: 4 Jul 2003
Go-Ahead Given for M50 Work Despite Protests: The Minister for the Environment has cleared the way for work to resume on the M50 motorway in south Dublin, despite appeals from campaigners seeking to preserve the medieval Carrickmines Castle site. In a statement this afternoon, Martin Cullen said the Council had demonstrated a 'systematic approach' to what he described as 'the archaeological resolution' of the site.
Source: RTE Interactive Date: 3 Jul 2003
Tunnels Revealed in Castle Works: Hidden tunnels last used as World War II bomb shelters are to be opened up in Cardiff Castle as part of a major refurbishment scheme. The Heritage Lottery Fund is financing a £6m renovation effort - currently Wales' largest conservation project.
Source: BBC News Date: 2 Jul 2003
City's History on Display: People in Oxford are being given the chance to see development work taking place at one of the city's most historic sites. A special viewing platform overlooking work on Oxford Castle has been constructed to allow people to watch progress at the site.
Source: BBC News Date: 30 Jun 2003
12th Century Rock Inscription Found in Ayodhya Excavation: A 12th century rock inscription was unearthed on the 96th day of excavation at the disputed site in Ayodhya today. Sources here today said the rock inscription was found in the G-3 trench at a depth of six metre. The inscription is made of red Mathura stone and is 51 cm long, 30 cm wide and 14 cm thick, sources added.
Source: DeepikaGlobal.com Date: 28 Jun 2003
Writing a River's History: The River Trent snakes through the East Midlands for 280km, starting in Staffordshire and ending in north Lincolnshire. Many of its benefits are clear - it provides water, natural beauty and its valley is a rich source of gravel.
Source: BBC News Date: 27 Jun 2003
Unique Silver Amulet Found in Moscow Region: A unique archaeological discovery, a silver amulet dating back to the 12th century was made at a building site in the Moscow region where the DON-Stroi construction company is building a new house for the Moscow regional administration. The rare amulet was found by workers of the Archaeology Institute.
Source: Pravda Date: 26 Jun 2003
Cultured Bacteria Save Medieval Frescoes: Italian art restorers struggling to save one of the world's biggest cycles of medieval frescoes have found an unexpected ally in a culture of greedy bacteria. After a glue used in a bungled earlier restoration attempt clouded one of the 14th and 15th century paintings in the Camposanto cemetery fresco cycle in Pisa, scientists turned to a bacteria called Pseudomonas Stutzeri -- with spectacular results.
Source: Reuters Date: 25 Jun 2003
Restoration of the 1000 Year Old Principal Gate Nearly Complete: "Restoring Bab Zuweila was for me a challenge, fun and a thrilling experience," said Nairy Hampikian, director of Bab Zuweila restoration project. "This southern bab was the principal gate of the Fatimid city. It was partially demolished in the 15th century when Sultan Al-Mu'ayyad built his mosque next to it on the site of a notorious prison in which he had been incarcerated. He erected the two tall minarets on the gate towers, and for more than 900 years, this was the main thoroughfare leading into the city, a centre of commerce, religious devotion, celebration and executions."
Source: Al-Ahram Weekly Date: 25 Jun 2003
Vatican Launches Sistine Chapel Site: The Sistine Chapel is now online. The Vatican hopes its new site for the Vatican Museums will attract more tourists while also disseminating the Church's message around the globe.
Source: Ananova Date: 24 Jun 2003
Math Formulas Help Rebuild Art Masterwork: A mathematical formula is allowing Italian researchers to recompose one of the most complicated jigsaw puzzles in history: the fragmented 15th century frescoes which once decorated the Ovetari Chapel of the Church of the Eremitani at Padua.
Source: Discovery Channel Date: 23 Jun 2003
MP Appeal Over Ancient Library: York's MP says the city's Minster should launch an appeal to allow it to keep open the whole of its historic library. Access to the library's book collection dating back to the 8th Century is planned to be closed as a way of reducing the Minster's £600,000 annual deficit.
Source: BBC News Date: 22 Jun 2003
Bacteria Restores Ancient Italian Frescoes: A strain of bacteria has successfully restored 14th-century frescoes belonging to what was once the most extensive cycle of medieval paintings in the world, Italian researchers announced on Friday at a news conference in Milan.
Source: Discovery Channel Date: 20 Jun 2003
Station Could Hold Medieval Secrets: A Northern Ireland police station could be sitting on a medieval Celtic settlement, according to a leading historian. Dr Eamon Phoneix said Andersonstown police station in west Belfast, which is earmarked for closure, should be given a full archaeological examination.
Source: BBC News Date: 20 Jun 2003
Historical Dig to Delay Court Building: Part of the car park behind Jersey's States offices will be closed in September for an archaeological dig. Experts from the Societe Jersiaise believe they could find some 13th Century relics of life in Jersey.
Source: BBC News Date: 19 Jun 2003
Robin Hood - Biography of a Mythical Hero: A mythical figure, who has been a subject of ballads, a nationalist rallying point, a cartoon fox, a figure of farce, and a template for petty criminals and progressive politicians alike, is now the subject of a new book by a Cardiff academic. Robin Hood: A Mythic Biography is the latest - and, he says, the last - book on the noble outlaw and his myth by Professor Stephen Knight, of the School of English, Communication and Philosophy.
Source: NewsWales Date: 17 Jun 2003
Bruce's Yew Could be Saved With Help of Technology: The most significant natural landmark associated with Robert the Bruce’s fight for independence could be saved by the world’s latest sonic imaging technology. The Picus Tomograph system, developed in Japan and regarded as the "holy grail" of digital imaging, will establish whether the "King’s Tree" can be rescued.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 16 Jun 2003
Castle Gives up ye Olde Status Symbol: It was as important to a 15th- century aristocrat as a flash car and natty suit are to today’s executives. Beneath Edinburgh Castle’s ancient floor, a status symbol that would have been treasured by a courtier of that period has been uncovered. The simple counter - which would have been used to play backgammon or as a prototype calculator - may have been dropped by a member of King James IV’s court, as he counted his riches or relaxed with his fellow aristocrats.
Source: Edinburgh News Date: 16 Jun 2003
Medieval Ship: Conservation Plans: A year on from the discovery of a medieval ship buried in a river bank, experts are putting into place a strategy of what needs to be done to conserve the vessel. The 14th Century boat was found during the construction of a new arts centre in Newport in June 2002.
Source: BBC News Date: 16 Jun 2003
SNP Split Over Bannockburn Rally: The Bannockburn rally, attended by hundreds of Scots to celebrate the independence battle of 1314, has thrown the Scottish National Party into a quandary over whether it should still support the event and risk being viewed as anti-English. Kenny MacAskill, the party’s transport spokesman, has declared it is "time to move on" and celebrate Scotland’s future rather than glorify Robert the Bruce’s defeat of the Edward II’s English forces.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 16 Jun 2003
Professor Making 'Digital Silk Road': Professor Kinji Ono of the National Institute of Informatics is working to create a cyber museum dubbed the "Digital Silk Road," digitizing pictures and documents concerning the old continental route linking Europe and the Orient for centuries.
Source: Japan Today Date: 15 Jun 2003
Gatwick Airport Protesters 'Hold off Bulldozer': Campaigners fighting plans for a second runway at Gatwick Airport have staged a mock confrontation with a bulldozer during a protest rally. There were cries of 'no way Gatwick runway' at the rally, which coincided with the end of a Government consultation to assess public opinion on plans to expand the West Sussex airport.
Source: Ananova Date: 14 Jun 2003
Medieval Castle Works Unveiled: A centuries-old fortress is to be opened to the public following a £1m improvement scheme. Major restoration has been carried out on Carmarthen castle over the last two years and structural work has now been completed.
Source: BBC News Date: 14 Jun 2003
Medieval Portuguese Sites Unearthed in Morocco: Three major Portuguese archeological sites dating back to the medieval era, were unearthed near the city of El-Jadida (some 100 km south Casablanca). The sites, discovered in searches on sites dating back to Portuguese presence in Morocco in 16th century, are Assaiss Fortress (14th century), Moukrouss (early 16th century) and the Aougar fortification.
Source: Arabic News Date: 14 Jun 2003
Becket Casket Returned to Murder Scene: A historic casket made to house relics of St Thomas Becket has been returned to the spot where he was murdered more than 800 years ago. The Becket Casket, which depicts his death in 1170 at the hands of King Henry II's knights, was pictured on the spot at Canterbury Cathedral before going on display to the public for the next fortnight.
Source: Ananova Date: 13 Jun 2003
Casket celebrates martyr's death: A casket celebrating Kent's best known religious martyr has been brought to Canterbury for the first time. The 12th-century enamel box depicts the death of archbishop Thomas Becket, who was killed on the steps of Canterbury Cathedral in 1170.
Source: BBC News Date: 13 Jun 2003
Sir Ridley Backs Medieval Movie: Sir Ridley Scott is to produce an adaptation of the legend of Tristan and Isolde which will be filmed in Prague, according to reports. The British director and producer's company Scott Free is co-producing the project, which will be directed by Kevin Reynolds, Screen Daily said.
Source: BBC News Date: 13 Jun 2003
Schweiger, Skarsgard in 'Arthur' Court: Adding an international flavor to Disney's "King Arthur," German-born Til Schweiger and Swede Stellan Skarsgard have signed on for roles in the Antoine Fuqua-directed feature. Set to star Clive Owen as the legendary Arthur, the film is said to offer a more historical take on the medieval legend. Schweiger will play Cynric, a chief Saxon lieutenant, while Skarsgard will play Cynric's father.
Source: Reuters Date: 12 Jun 2003
Shroud of Germs: Stephen Mattingly believes the Turin shroud was 'painted' by bacteria from a dying man's body. Laura Spinney meets the Catholic microbiologist challenging the medieval hoax theory.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 12 Jun 2003
Schoolboy Finds Viking Ring: A sixth grader unearthed a ring during a class outing to Borre National Park, where children could try their hands at archeology. The ring was likely part of a larger piece of woman's jewelry and probably over 1,000 years old, Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK) reports.
Source: Aftenposten Date: 11 Jun 2003
Skeleton Holds Key to German Emperor's Cathedral: German archeologist Babette Ludowici always knew she was on to something big when digging at a site in the eastern city of Magdeburg. But the discovery of a dusty skeleton was all the proof she needed to confirm that she had found one of the most important churches in medieval history -- a cathedral built by the Holy Roman Emperor Otto the Great in the 10th century.
Source: Reuters Date: 11 Jun 2003
Skeleton Holds Key to Holy Roman Cathedral: The discovery of a dusty skeleton has revealed one of the most important churches in mediaeval history: a cathedral built by the Holy Roman Emperor Otto the Great in the 10th century. "This is one of the biggest finds in recent years in the history of mediaeval archaeology," said Dr Babette Ludowici, an archaeologist at the Centre of East Central European History and Culture in Magdeburg.
Source: ABC Online News Date: 11 Jun 2003
New Archaeological Find in Menya: Excavation works in Menya led to the unearthing of a church, winery, kitchen, meeting hall and some reliefs. Director of Islamic and Coptic Antiquities in this Upper Egyptian governorate ,Yehya Hassanein, said the mission assigned to excavate in Beni Khaled has conducted a thorough scan of the area and started working near a 30-metre-wide mudbrick cave believed to have been the site to worship Saint Abu Qana.
Source: Egypt State Information Service Date: 10 Jun 2003
Archaeological Treasure Salvaged: The last phase of digging up a ship, estimated to be over 1,000 years old, at the sleepy hamlet of Kadakkarapalli near Thykkal in Alappuzha district has just been completed. This has raised hopes that the ancient vessel would help shed light on Kerala's centuries-old link with Arabs, Jews and Europeans. The delicate excavation work by the Kerala Archaeology Department and the Kochi-based Centre for Heritage Studies (CHS) was stopped after the vessel's 20-metre-long and 4-metre-wide surface was bared and soil around the vessel was removed in depth to ascertain that there was no more parts left at the bottom.
Source: Gulf News Date: 9 Jun 2003
Siena Unveils Hidden Fresco Masterpieces Missing for 700 years: The uniquely preserved medieval frescos found in the crypt beneath Siena Cathedral have gone on show for the first time. Only four people in the world had seen the cycle of vibrantly coloured frescos until last week. They are believed to have been painted in 1285, possibly by the influential Sienese artist, Duccio di Buoninsegna.
Source: Daily Telegraph Date: 8 Jun 2003
Anglo Saxon Brooch Has Oldest Writing in English: What is believed to be the oldest form of writing in English ever found has been uncovered in an Anglo-Saxon burial ground. It is in the form of four runes representing the letters N, E, I and M scratched on the back of a bronze brooch from around AD650. The six inch cruciform brooch is among one million artefacts recovered from a site at West Heslerton, near Malton, North Yorks, since work began there in 1978. Dominic Powlesland, the archaeologist leading the excavation team, said: "This could well be the earliest example of written English we know of.
Source: Daily Telegraph Date: 7 Jun 2003
Experts to Repair 'Faeces Fossil': Archaeologists are carrying out one of their most delicate projects to date - the careful restoration of 1200-year-old human faeces. Measuring 20cm by 5cm, the exhibit is thought to be the largest fossilised human excrement ever found.
Source: BBC News Date: 6 Jun 2003
Filthy Secrets of Medieval Toilets: It has been the cry of householders though the ages as they wade through a pool of something indescribable. "Damn medieval plumbing!" But an exhibition in Paris sets out to show that toilet facilities in the Middle Ages may not have been as primitive as previously thought.
Source: BBC News Date: 4 Jun 2003
Remains of Ancient Church Found: Archaeologists say they have unearthed the remains of a giant cathedral in eastern Germany known to have been built by Holy Roman Emperor Otto the Great in the 10th Century. "This is one of the most important finds on the history of the early Middle Ages in Europe," said dig leader Rainer Kuhn of the State Office for Archeology in Magdeburg.
Source: Herald Sun Date: 4 Jun 2003
Ancient Abbey's Virtual World: Tourists are becoming real-life "Tomb Raiders" after an ancient abbey was recreated in a virtual reality world. Tintern Abbey, near Chepstow in Monmouthshire, has been brought back to its former glory through an interactive tour which was created using technology seen in computer games. People can now search the ruins from their PC and see what the abbey would have looked like in 1320 compared to today.
Source: BBC News Date: 3 Jun 2003
Forgotten Burgh is Buried Treasure: It was arguably the most powerful and prosperous Royal burgh in Scotland, with five mints turning out coins of the realm and merchants from across Europe arriving to purchase the annual wool clip. But after Old Roxburgh, or Rokesburg as it was then called, was razed in 1460 during the militarisation of the Border between England and Scotland, the place where Scottish kings held court was quickly abandoned and forgotten.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 3 Jun 2003
Tiberias Archaeological Digs Uncover Remains of 12th century Crusader Fortress: Archaeological digs being carried out by the Antiquities Authority in the old city of Tiberias have revealed impressive remains of the gate and wall of the city's 12th century Crusader fortress. The digs are part of a tourism development project initiated by the Tourism Ministry.
Source: Haaretz Date: 1 Jun 2003
Explosives Found at Jaisalmer Fort: Police in the western Indian state of Rajasthan have sealed off a part of the famous 12th century Jaisalmer Fort after a huge cache of explosives was found. The police chief of Jaisalmer, Sanjeev Narjari, told the BBC the explosives could be hundreds of years old and were found in rubble by workers.
Source: BBC News Date: 30 May 2003
Monk's Resting Place Uncovered: Archaeologists have uncovered a 14th century gravestone which marks the final resting place of a Coventry monk. It is hailed as one of the most exciting discoveries found thanks to the £50 million Phoenix Initiative.
Source: icCoventry Date: 30 May 2003
Residents Fight to Preserve Archaelogical Remains: Outraged Fetcham residents claim an historic archaelogical site will be lost forever if developers bulldoze the site for homes. Fetcham Residents' Association is fighting to save the Anglo-Saxon burial ground site in the grounds of Hawks Hill House in Guildford Road. Millgate Homes wants to build an eight-flat development and create a new road.
Source: icSurrey Date: 29 May 2003
Coptic Studies Hold Key to Legacy: A lecture presented partly to raise funds for the newly-established Chair of Coptic Studies at the American University in Cairo (AUC) proved an open forum for voicing concerns about the preservation of Egypt's monuments, particularly its Coptic heritage.
Source: Al-Ahram Weekly Date: 28 May 2003
Experts Find Middle Age Boozer: Every community needs a pub to hold it together, acting as a focal-point for local residents to talk about the day’s events. Whether it’s the Rovers Return in Weatherfield, or The Queen Vic in Albert Square, a neighbourhood seems almost dysfunctional if it does not have a building where human interaction can take place. Even in medieval times, one of the country’s most beautiful and religious cities needed an ale-house.
Source: icBirmingham Date: 28 May 2003
Ex-Cleaner Gets Top Heritage Job: A heritage enthusiast, who started work as a cleaner at Carlisle Castle 27 years ago, has taken charge of her own piece of history. Christine Russell has been appointed senior custodian of Lanercost Priory, by English Heritage.
Source: BBC News Date: 26 May 2003
How Prague Bible Survived to Tell of Great Flood: A flood-damaged 500-year-old Czech Bible, regarded as one of the jewels of central European Christianity, has been saved by British and other experts in a painstaking restoration project using freezers and vacuums to bring them back to their old glory. The Bible is one of the most precious items among a vast array of books, manuscripts and ancient maps waterlogged after the worst floods in 200 years swamped the Czech capital, Prague, last August.
Source: Daily Telegraph Date: 24 May 2003
Lost Abbey Unearthed in Syon Park: An archaeological excavation has unearthed a huge lost abbey that was host to King Henry VIII's coffin within the grounds of Brentford's Syon Park. The three day excavation programme, which finished on Thursday, May 8th, was carried out by a team of archaeological experts together with Channel Four's Time Team', in an area adjacent to Syon House, to search for the original foundations of the lost Bridgettine Abbey.
Source: Hounslow Guardian Date: 23 May 2003
Remains of 1,000 Year Castle Found in Portrush: An Ulster historian today called for changes to be made to planning legislation following the discovery of the remains of a 1,000-year-old castle by developers constructing apartments in a Co Antrim resort. Developers working at a site at Upper Main Street in Portrush have uncovered what is believed to be the walls and foundations of the long forgotten Portrush Castle, which dates back to the twelfth century.
Source: Belfast Telegraph Date: 21 May 2003
Original David's Psalms Kept in Coptic Museum: The original copy of the Book of Psalms, which dates back to the 3rd or 4th century AD is kept inside the Coptic Museum, said Zahi Hawas, Secretary General of the Supreme Council of Antiquities (SCA). In statements to MENA, Hawas dismissed the reports that the Psalms of Prophet David were stolen from the Coptic Museum.
Source: Arabic News Date: 20 May 2003
Castle Proposals Put to Planners: Proposals to renovate one of Jersey's best known landmarks have been formally put to the island's planning authorities. The Jersey Heritage Trust is planning an extensive programme of conservation and restoration at Mont Orgeuil.
Source: BBC News Date: 15 May 2003
Gospels' Truth Uncovered: Researchers have found a possible link between the Lindisfarne gospels and another celebrated early British text, proving they may have been written at the same time in the same region. The gospels are now thought to have been written at the same time as Bede's Ecclesiastical History of the English people, according to the British Library.
Source: BBC News Date: 14 May 2003
Ancient Gospels to 'Return Home': The North East's most famous book is due to return home this week. A hi-tech copy of the illuminated Lindisfarne Gospels will arrive on Holy Island, 1300 years after the original version left the island. The Lindisfarne Gospels were put together by Bishop Eadfrith of Lindisfarne in around 715 AD.
Source: BBC News Date: 11 May 2003
O'Neill Castle Remains Found: Remains of a medieval castle believed to be one of the first built in Ulster have been uncovered in a former County Tyrone military base. They are thought to date back to the early 14th Century and to have been built by Irish chieftain Domnall O`Neill. Archaeologists have examined the site in the centre of Dungannon and recovered thousands of artefacts, but it has now disappeared under tonnes of concrete in preparation for development.
Source: U TV Date: 11 May 2003
Stone Nears End of Medieval Journey: A six-tonne boulder is nearing its destination after travelling to Ely in Cambridgeshire in a re-enactment of the medieval route for the building materials. A huge block of stone is being transported by barge from Wansford near Peterborough to Ely, where it will be installed in the town's Jubilee Gardens.
Source: BBC News Date: 11 May 2003
Castle Reveals Town's Secrets: To many Carmarthen Castle is one of the less impressive medieval fortresses in Wales. But the discovery of a network of medieval walls could change all that as a £3m enhancement scheme gets underway in the town.
Source: BBC News Date: 10 May 2003
Mapmaker Rubs Out Redundant Religious Buildings: Old churches, mosques and synagogues will be removed from new Ordnance Survey maps if they are of no navigational use to walkers. The distinctive black crosses will still appear on all active religious venues, and those old religious sites which boast a notable landmark such as a tower or minaret.
Source: Ananova Date: 9 May 2003
Knights Out in Galway?: The Knights Templar, the mysterious Christian warriors who fought in the Crusades but were later disbanded by the Pope, may have had a hostelry in Galway city, it was claimed last evening following the discovery of a medieval wall in Eyre Square this week. On Tuesday, archaeologists monitoring construction work for the Galway broadband network around Eyre Square made a discovery which could prove important for understanding mediaeval Galway.
Source: Galway Advertiser Date: 8 May 2003
Stone Makes Medieval Journey: Eels and rabbits were bartered on a waterway in Cambridgeshire on Thursday as part of the re-enactment of the medieval route for building materials. A huge block of stone is being transported by barge from Wansford near Peterborough to Ely, where it will be installed in the town's Jubilee Gardens.
Source: BBC News Date: 8 May 2003
Ancient Find Opens Window on Past: Stones and bones and ancient pottery and glass discovered by archaeologists at Dungannon's Castle Hill have opened a unique window on the past. The prominent historic hill-top site, once home to the exiled O'Neill clan, was used more recently as a police and Army base. Dungannon council had begun discussions over the future of the site, partly owned by the Orange Order and the DoE Water Service, before the discovery was made.
Source: ic Northern Ireland Date: 6 May 2003
Vikings Raped, Pillaged Then Did Ironing: Vikings were responsible for introducing ironing to Scotland. The pillaging Scandinavians were surprisingly conscious of their appearance and regularly smoothed their clothes. Excavations across Scotland have revealed evidence that the Nordic warriors used ironing boards and smoothing stones to make the job easier.
Source: Daily Record Date: 5 May 2003
Exploring the ancient Castle Caves of Budapest: Enjoying the beautiful spring afternoon, hundreds of tourists wandered around the Castle District, admiring the ancient buildings and taking photographs of the sights. But many are probably unaware that, underneath their feet, is a labyrinthine network of caverns and passageways curling through the hill. Writing in 1536, Miklós Oláh, Archbishop of Esztergom and secretary to the widow of Lajos II, noted that, "Because of the countless wine-cellars situated inside the Castle Hill, it is practically hollow."
Source: Budapest Sun Date: 1 May 2003
Part of Glyndwr Castle Discovered: An archaeologist claims he has found the foundations to a lost building on the estate of the last Welsh-born Prince of Wales Owain Glyndwr. Spencer Smith, 30, has investigated the site of the prince's home at Sycharth in mid Wales in an effort to identify buildings mentioned in the poems of Glyndwr's court poet, Iolo Goch.
Source: BBC News Date: 29 Apr 2003
Digging the Dirt on Leith's Past: Excavations in the shadow of a multi-million pound housing development are set to shed new light on life in medieval Leith. The archaeological dig next to the 110-home apartment block at Ronaldson’s Wharf is regarded by experts as one of the most significant medieval excavations in Scotland. Six archaeologists have been digging the final 12-metre-square section and have uncovered evidence of settlement dating back as early as the 11th century.
Source: Evening News Date: 24 Apr 2003
Medieval Ship - Candidates' Views: Assembly candidates in Newport constituency where a medieval ship was found have given their opinions on what should happen to it. Experts working on the ship, much of which has already been recovered, have advised Newport council to leave the stern where it is as they think it is too dangerous to move it.
Source: BBC News Date: 24 Apr 2003
Final Fears for Ship Rescue: Campaigners fighting to save a 15th century ship are worried her stern could soon be buried under the concrete foundations of the new Newport arts centre. Newport City Council decided not to raise the stern after hearing it was too dangerous to lift. Work on the centre will now continue.
Source: BBC News Date: 22 Apr 2003
Archaeologists Race Against Time in Search of Medieval Relics: Relics of Glasgow's medieval past have been found on the site of a former car park in the city centre. Pottery from the fourteenth century and foundations of nineteenth-century tenements, plus cobblestones, have so far been unearthed, although the ultimate prize, a fifteenth-century Franciscan friary garden, has still to be discovered.
Source: Glasgow Herald Date: 21 Apr 2003
Battle to Rescue Rare Ship is Lost: Archaeologists around the country are united in outrage with local campaigners over the decision to abandon any attempt to rescue the stern of a unique medieval boat discovered by chance last summer on the banks of the river Usk, during the construction of an arts centre in the heart of Newport, south Wales. "It makes you despair of the Welsh," said Dai Morgan Evans, the secretary of the Society of Antiquaries - who is Welsh.
Source: Guardian Unlimited Date: 21 Apr 2003
Mystery of Ancient Stone Dragon's Head Discovered Beneath Car Showroom: Archaeologists working at a former car showroom have unearthed an 850-year-old carved dragon's head. The limestone head, which would have been painstakingly carved by hand by a medieval craftsman, would have adorned the arch around a window or door. It was found during an excavation at the old Eastgate Motors building in Wragby Road, Lincoln, where a multi-million pound apartment block development is taking place.
Source: Lincolnshire Echo Date: 19 Apr 2003
Castle Myth Laid to Rest After 400 Years: Highland history is being re-written after archaeologists made new discoveries about a landmark stronghold that was once the seat of the earls of Caithness. They found the site had been built on a century earlier than previously thought, and that two ruins - Castle Sinclair and Girnigoe Castle - are, in fact, part of the same structure.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 12 Apr 2003
Newport Ship Bows Raised: The final pieces of the bow of a medieval ship found buried in a river bank have been raised. But experts excavating the remains of the vessel discovered in Newport have declared that saving the stern, the last remaining piece, would be too dangerous.
Source: BBC News Date: 10 Apr 2003
Castle's Centuries of Secrets Revealed: A former stronghold of royal power in Wales is revealing centuries of secrets in a multi-million pound programme to hand it over to the people. The ancient keep and gate-house of Carmarthen Castle will soon open to the public for the first time as workmen near the end of the third of four phases of preservation and enhancement work.
Source: ic Wales Date: 9 Apr 2003
Appeal to Keep Saxon Treasures: About £40,000 is needed to keep an important collection of Anglo-Saxon jewellery in Norfolk. The Harford Farm hoard was found in a Saxon cemetery unearthed by archaeologists between 1989 and 1990 before Norwich's southern bypass was built. The grave-goods were loaned to the county's museum service by the landowner - but he has now died, and the executors of his will must sell the treasures.
Source: BBC News Date: 8 Apr 2003
Defences Try to Hold Back the Tide: Work has begun to reinforce limestone cliffs in north-east England which are slowly crumbling into the sea. English Heritage is spending £150,000 in a two-month scheme to reinforce the headland which supports the ruins of the 11th Century Tynemouth Priory.
Source: BBC News Date: 8 Apr 2003
Woman Unearths Ancient Love Token: A Devon treasure trove inquest heard on Monday how a retired school secretary struck gold when she discovered a 13th century brooch with her metal detector. Adina Parnell, 66, found the piece of medieval jewellery while searching for metal on south Devon farmland last May. After digging just six inches below the surface she unearthed the tiny golden brooch.
Source: BBC News Date: 8 Apr 2003
Statement From the Friends of the Newport Ship: Following today's announcement from the Glamorgan Gwent Archaeological Trust (GGAT) that the trust is to sue Newport City Council for non-payment of fees of £102K incurred in the excavation and recovery of the Newport Mediaeval Ship, The Friends of the Newport Ship wishes to express its support for the proposed action.
Source: NewsWales Date: 7 Apr 2003
Middle Ages Were Warmer Than Today, Say Scientists: Claims that man-made pollution is causing "unprecedented" global warming have been seriously undermined by new research which shows that the Earth was warmer during the Middle Ages. From the outset of the global warming debate in the late 1980s, environmentalists have said that temperatures are rising higher and faster than ever before, leading some scientists to conclude that greenhouse gases from cars and power stations are causing these "record-breaking" global temperatures.
Source: Daily Telegraphy Date: 6 Apr 2003
Mary Rose Experts to Raise Ship: Archaeologists from the Mary Rose Trust are to manage the excavation of part of the medieval ship found in Newport last summer. Archaeologists from across Europe will be attempting to reclaim as much of the ship as possible but said they will leave the stern because it's felt, it is too dangerous to dig out.
Source: BBC News Date: 4 Apr 2003
Medieval Past Revealed: Medieval pottery and old shoe leather have been unearthed from an old Coventry ditch that follows the line of the city wall - demolished on the orders of King Charles II. Archaeologists working for Coventry City Council have now completed an "evaluation dig" prior to the land in Bond Street and Hill Street being developed for housing, shops and offices.
Source: ic Coventry Date: 2 Apr 2003
Torture Instruments on Display at Tower: Instruments of torture will be on display this spring in an exhibition at the Tower of London. Such grisly items as the rack and a compressing machine known as the Scavenger's Daughter will go on show at the famous fortress from May 1.
Source: Ananova Date: 30 Mar 2003
Medieval Warriors Given Second Burial: Two brave medieval warriors badly injured by marauding English soldiers have been laid to rest for a second time. Both men suffered brutal sword wounds to their skulls during hand-to-hand fighting with troops loyal to English monarch Richard II. The fighters’ remains were buried in a forgotten cemetery within the ancient Scots abbey they defended so bravely - but centuries later their bones were disturbed, along with the skeletons of 135 medieval Scots, by workmen laying a sewer.
Source: Edinburgh News Date: 26 Mar 2003
Castle Battles to Attract Tourists: A 12th Century stately home is launching a campaign to become a major tourist attraction. Berkeley Castle in Gloucestershire, which dates back to 1153, used to attract 100,000 visitors a year but numbers are now half that.
Source: BBC News Date: 24 Mar 2003
Ancient Water Mill Uncovered: Archaeologists have found what they believe are the remains of a timber medieval water mill on the banks of the River Sow in Stafford. The site, at the junction of Tenterbanks and Mill Bank with Water Street, has been unearthed by a team from Birmingham University's Field Archaeology Unit during river improvement works.
Source: BBC News Date: 21 Mar 2003
Treasures on Show at Sutton Hoo: An exhibition of East Anglian treasures kept by the British Museum is going on display at Sutton Hoo in Suffolk. The new exhibition, entitled Far-Fetched Treasures, features some of the finest examples of Anglo-Saxon craftsmanship in the UK.
Source: BBC News Date: 21 Mar 2003
Roof Appeal For Ancient Church: An ambitious project to rebuild a medieval church, stone by stone, has led to an appeal for authentic roofing materials. Staff at the Museum of Welsh Life at St Fagans in Cardiff are painstakingly rebuilding the 13th century St Teilo's Church, which it is hoped will become a key visitor attraction.
Source: BBC News Date: 20 Mar 2003
Castle 'can't be demolished': Council leaders have moved to allay concerns that Nottingham's castle could be demolished. This follows comments by the Sheriff of Nottingham, Ali Asghar, that the mansion atop Castle Rock should be "knocked down and rebuilt as a proper castle".
Source: BBC News Date: 18 Mar 2003
Famous castle 'should be demolished': Nottingham Castle is a "disappointment" for tourists and should be demolished, a city leader says. Councillor Ali Asghar, the current Sheriff of Nottingham, says a new castle should be built in its place. A councillor for seven years, he told BBC News Online: "I think tourists who come to see the castle are probably very disappointed.
Source: BBC News Date: 18 Mar 2003
Overhaul for Viking Ship: A £130,000 overhaul has been approved for a replica Viking ship which has stood on a cliff in Kent for more than 50 years. The Hugin Viking ship, which has deteriorated over the past half-century, has been promised a complete makeover this summer.
Source: BBC News Date: 18 Mar 2003
Skeletons Found in School Yard: Archaeologists have discovered one of the earliest Christian burial sites underneath a school playground in north-east England. A total of 80 Dark Ages skeletons have been found in the grounds of Bishopsmill Special School in Stockton, Teesside.
Source: BBC News Date: 18 Mar 2003
Dig Uncovers City's Saxon Past: Archaeologists working at Norwich's newest development have discovered some unexpected secrets about the city's past. The team have discovered signs of a Saxon settlement - the first in Norwich.
Source: BBC News Date: 14 Mar 2003
Ship Dig Row Resolved: An archaeological trust facing financial problems after work on unearthing a unique 15th century ship says it has reached an agreement with Newport council. Staff at the Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust (G-GAT) are celebrating after being told a bill of £31,000 - out of a total of £130,000 - will now be paid.
Source: BBC News Date: 14 Mar 2003
Medieval Theme Park Plan Shelved: Plans for a medieval style theme park in Canterbury, Kent, have been shelved. The scheme was one of a number of options put out for public consultation for the 55-acre Kingsmead site.
Source: BBC News Date: 12 Mar 2003
Newport Mediaeval Ship – New Website Launched: A website has been launched to promote the recently discovered Newport Mediaeval Ship. The site – www..thenewportship.com - includes masses of information about the history of the ship, its discovery on the banks of the River Usk in central Newport, the excavation and the recovery of hundreds of 15th century artifacts from within the ship.
Source: NewsWales Date: 11 Mar 2003
Ship Dig Bill 'Threat to Trust': An archaeological charity could go into receivership because it claims Newport council owes £130,000 for excavation work on a medieval ship. A meeting to resolve the dispute between the Glamorgan-Gwent Archaeological Trust (G-GAT) and the authority is taking place on Tuesday afternoon.
Source: BBC News Date: 10 Mar 2003
Cathedral Find Rewrites History: Historians may change their age-old approach to restoring ancient buildings after the surprising discovery of 13th Century Irish wood in the framework of Salisbury Cathedral. Previously it was not thought possible cathedral timbers could have survived until recent dating technique developments proved otherwise.
Source: BBC News Date: 5 Mar 2003
Call for Return of Medieval Brasses: Two churches in East Anglia have called for the return of priceless medieval brasses - which are in the vaults of prestigious United States museums. Parishioners at Brundish, in Suffolk, and Brinkley, in Cambridgeshire, have called on the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York to return the brasses.
Source: BBC News Date: 4 Mar 2003
Restoration Boost for Oldest Shop: A scheme to save the oldest known timber-framed shop in the country has received a major cash boost. A grant of £250,000 from English Heritage, announced on Wednesday, will be used for repairs to the13th-century building at 173 High Street, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire.
Source: BBC News Date: 26 Feb 2003
Black Douglas Clan Leader Joins Battle to Preserve Ancient Church: The head of the "Black Douglas" clan, who was forced to sell the Borders estate which had been in his family’s possession for almost 600 years, has joined the fight to preserve an ancient Douglas church and burial ground. James Palmer-Douglas, 80, moved away from Cavers, near Hawick, in 1975, when the remaining lands of the once vast estates in Roxburghshire were put on the market. Some 10,000 acres came into the hands of his ancestors soon after the Battle of Otterburn in 1388, where the Earl of Douglas was killed in a bloody clash with English forces.
Source: The Scotsman Date: 25 Feb 2003
Medieval Altarpiece is Restored: Britain's largest surviving medieval altarpiece is returning to a village church following an eight-year restoration project. The piece, thought to be 670-years-old, is being reinstalled at St Mary's Church in Thornham Parva, Suffolk after restoration work at the Hamilton Kerr Institute in Cambridge, part of the Fitzwilliam Museum.
Source: BBC News Date: 20 Feb 2003
Medieval Garden Intrigues British Archaeologists: The buried remains of a 700-year-old garden at Whittington Castle in Shropshire, England, could substantially change historian's understanding of medieval gardens. The 14th-century garden had one of the earliest and largest viewing mounts ever found in England, an unusual layout, and an elaborate ditched water system. Viewing mounts were built to provide elevated views of a castle's garden, grounds, and surrounding landscape and symbolized the owner's wealth and high status.
Source: National Geographic Date: 10 Feb 2003
Bishops Seek Saint for Internet: Fed up with hackers, a flood of spam and lousy connections, Italian Roman Catholics have launched a search for a patron saint of the Internet. And they hope their online poll will yield a holy Web protector by Easter. Will it be Archangel Gabriel, whom the Bible credits with bringing Mary the news that she'd give birth to Jesus? Or Saint Isadore of Seville, who wrote the world's first encyclopedia? Or perhaps Saint Clare of Assisi, a nun believed to have seen visions on a wall?
Source: CNN.com Date: 1 Feb 2003
Lives of Famous Men: The Lost Frescoes: A scholar on the trail of Petrarch has discovered two rare books containing hand-drawn images that offer a glimpse of the lost fourteenth-century frescoes from the Hall of Famous Men. The frescoes, destroyed by fire, were commissioned to accompany Petrarch’s book of Roman heroes, Lives of Famous Men.
Source: NEH Date: 1 Feb 2003
Laird fined for castle demolition: A laird who defied his local authority and went ahead with the demolition of an historic castle has been fined £1,000. Alistair Dickson, who owned dilapidated Lanrick Castle near Doune in Perthshire, was found guilty after a trial at Stirling Sheriff Court and was given three months to pay the fine.
Source: BBC News Date: 31 Jan 2003
'Worthy' Memorial for Glyndwr's home: Residents living near the ancestral home of Welsh legend Owain Glyndwr have called for a "worthy memorial" to be erected in his honour. The family of the proclaimed Prince of Wales were from Corwen - situated at the head of the Dee Valley.
Source: BBC News Date: 22 Jan 2003
Saxon Remains to be Reburied: Hundreds of Saxon skeletons accidentally unearthed by builders will be reburied. The remains of around 650 people were uncovered during building work near St Andrew's Church in Cherry Hinton, Cambridgeshire, more than four years ago. The vicar, the Reverend Chris Boulton, will hold a reburial service in the church graveyard once archaeologists have completed research on the bones.
Source: BBC News Date: 22 Jan 2003
Medieval Coins go to Museum: A cache of medieval coins unearthed in Cambridge has been handed to the city's Fitzwilliam Museum. The booty, £10 17d from the 14th century, was discovered while sewers in the city were being replaced.
Source: BBC News Date: 21 Jan 2003
North Loses Battle to Show Gospels: The battle to win a permanent home in the North East for the Lindisfarne gospels has been lost. Campaigners have argued the illuminated manuscripts should be housed on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, off the Northumberland coast, where they were produced by monks in the seventh century.
Source: BBC News Date: 20 Jan 2003
Vandals Attack Ancient Religious Shrine: Vandals have attacked an historic chapel in a North Yorkshire market town for the second time in less than a year. The 600-year-old shrine of Our Lady of the Crag in Knaresborough, a Grade I listed building, has had bricks thrown through the small leaded windows. The tiny chapel, which measures 12ft by 8ft, is carved out of the rock face in the town as a shrine to the Virgin Mary.
Source: BBC News Date: 20 Jan 2003
Medieval Ship's Bow and Stern Examined: Archaeologists are preparing to examine the bow and stern of a medieval ship found in Newport after several delays in the excavation. Last June, the 15th Century ship was found in the banks of the River Usk by builders hollowing out the orchestra pit of a new theatre and arts centre for the city.
Source: BBC News Date: 14 Jan 2003
Hoo's the Top UK Treasure: The Anglo-Saxon ship-burial at Sutton Hoo in Suffolk has been voted by the public the top treasure of the British Museum. It beat into second place the Vindolanda Tablets, found in Northumberland, which were voted top of a poll of museum experts. Also in the top ten is the Snettisham Hoard, found in Norfolk, and the Mildenhall Treasure and Hoxne Hoard, both found in Suffolk.
Source: BBC News Date: 13 Jan 2003
Queen Urged 'to Return Saints' Relics to Cathedral': An amateur historian has written to the Queen asking her to return a collection of body parts of saints which he claims was stolen from a cathedral hundreds of years ago. Paul Cantrell, 60, believes the relics were seized from Lincoln Cathedral on the orders of King Henry VIII in the 16th century and taken to the Tower of London.
Source: Ananova Date: 9 Jan 2003
Top Ten Treasures Announced: East Anglia has provided many of the finest treasures found in the UK - but Northumberland takes the top spot, according to experts. A top ten of treasures of the British Museum includes three found in Suffolk and one found in Norfolk. But the Anglo-Saxon hoard found at Sutton Hoo, near Woodbridge, Suffolk, was beaten into second place by the Roman Vindolanda tablets found in Northumberland.
Source: BBC News Date: 2 Jan 2003

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