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Archaeology

Iron Age Gold Coins Unearthed in Wales: A Remarkable Archaeological Discovery

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Ancient Gold Coins Unearthed in Wales: A Historical Discovery

Iron Age Treasure Trove

For the first time, archaeologists have stumbled upon a remarkable hoard of Iron Age gold coins in Wales. These 15 exceptional artifacts, known as staters, were discovered in a field on the island of Anglesey, off the northwest coast of Wales. The coins, dating back to between 60 and 20 B.C.E., are the first Iron Age gold coins ever found in the country.

Intricate Designs and Macedonian Influence

One side of the coins depicts the Greek god Apollo, while the other features a horse surrounded by intricate symbols. The style of the coins exhibits a clear influence from the Macedonian gold coins of Phillip II.

Metal Detectorists’ Triumph

The discovery of these ancient treasures was made possible by the keen eyes of metal detectorists. Two friends, Peter Cockton and Lloyd Roberts, unearthed five of the coins. For Roberts, it was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream, as he had always yearned to find a gold stater.

Tim Watson, a novice metal detectorist, was responsible for finding the remaining ten coins. After upgrading his equipment, he struck gold in the same field where Roberts and Cockton had made their discoveries.

Historical Significance

The coins provide valuable insights into the Corieltavi tribe, who inhabited the area now known as England’s East Midlands during the Iron Age. Researchers believe that the coins were not used as traditional currency but rather as gifts to forge alliances among elites or as offerings to the gods.

Archaeological Survey and Future Plans

Following the discovery, experts from the Gwynedd Archaeological Trust conducted a survey of the site to unravel the mystery behind the presence of the coins. While no conclusive evidence was found at the immediate vicinity, the findspot lies within an area rich in prehistoric and early Roman activity, shedding light on the region’s historical significance.

Oriel Môn, a museum in Anglesey, has expressed interest in acquiring the coins and putting them on public display, allowing visitors to marvel at these ancient artifacts and delve into the fascinating history they represent.

Preserving the Past, Uncovering the Future

The discovery of these Iron Age gold coins in Wales underscores the importance of vigilant individuals in preserving and uncovering valuable pieces of history. It also highlights the ongoing efforts of archaeologists and historians to piece together the intricate tapestry of our past and shed light on the lives and cultures of our ancestors.

Additional Details and Insights

  • The staters depict Apollo, the Greek god of music, poetry, and prophecy, on one side and a horse surrounded by symbols on the other.
  • The horse motif is believed to represent Epona, the Celtic goddess of horses, fertility, and the underworld.
  • The symbols surrounding the horse may represent various aspects of Celtic culture and beliefs, such as the sun, the moon, and the four seasons.
  • The coins were likely minted during a period of significant political and economic change in the region, as the Iron Age transitioned into the Roman period.
  • The discovery of these coins has generated excitement among archaeologists and historians, as it provides new evidence for understanding the complexities of Iron Age society in Wales.
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Sports Science

The Papal Rugby Theory: Does Wales’ Rugby Success Predict Papal Mortality?

by Rosa
written by Rosa

Does Wales’ Rugby Success Predict the Death of a Pope?

Rugby, a popular sport in Wales, has been linked to an intriguing theory: the “papal rugby theory.” This theory suggests that when Wales wins a rugby grand slam (winning every match in the Six Nations Championship), the likelihood of a papal death increases.

The Urban Legend

An urban legend in Wales claims that every time Wales wins a rugby grand slam, a pope dies. However, researchers have found that this specific claim is not supported by the data.

The Special and General Theories of Papal Rugby

Researchers have developed two theories to explore the relationship between rugby and papal mortality:

  • Special theory of papal rugby: When Wales wins a grand slam, the chance of a papal death in that year increases.
  • General theory of papal rugby: When Wales performs particularly well (not necessarily winning a grand slam), the expected number of papal deaths increases.

The Research

Researchers analyzed data on rugby championships and papal deaths from 1883 to the present. They found that the special theory of papal rugby is not supported by the data. However, they did find a borderline significant association between Wales’ rugby wins and the number of papal deaths, supporting the general theory.

The Vatican’s Response

After Wales won the grand slam in 2007, researchers advised Vatican medical staff to be on guard until the end of 2008. However, the pope did not die during that time.

The Future of the Papal Rugby Theory

The papal rugby theory remains a topic of debate. Some researchers believe that it is a valid theory, while others argue that it is simply a coincidence. Further research is needed to determine whether there is a genuine link between Wales’ rugby success and papal mortality.

Additional Insights

  • The researchers noted that two popes died in one year (1978), which happened to be the year of a Wales grand slam.
  • The researchers emphasized that the general theory applies specifically to Wales’ rugby wins, and not to the wins of other teams.
  • The papal rugby theory has sparked interest among both rugby fans and religious scholars.

Conclusion

The papal rugby theory is an intriguing hypothesis that has generated both fascination and controversy. While the specific claim that every Wales grand slam leads to a papal death has been debunked, the general theory that Wales’ rugby success may be linked to an increased likelihood of papal deaths remains a subject of ongoing research.

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Uncategorized

Medieval Caernarfon: Uncovering the Secrets of Wales’ Walled Town

by Peter
written by Peter

Medieval Caernarfon: Unearthing the Past

The Walled Town of Caernarfon

Caernarfon, a town in North Wales, played a pivotal role in the tumultuous history between England and Wales. In the late 13th century, English King Edward I embarked on a campaign to conquer Wales. As part of his strategy, he established a series of fortifications known as the “Iron Ring of Castles.” One of these castles was built in Caernarfon, and alongside it, Edward constructed a walled borough with a grid of streets.

The town walls served as a defensive barrier, protecting the inhabitants from Welsh rebellions and other threats. However, over time, the walls were weakened by attacks and fires, and they were eventually demolished in the 14th century.

Archaeological Discoveries

In recent years, archaeological excavations in Caernarfon have shed new light on the town’s medieval past. One of the most significant discoveries was made during a survey ahead of the construction of a new health center. Archaeologists from C.R. Archaeology unearthed a flight of steps that may represent the remains of the original town wall, built during Edward I’s reign.

Other finds from the survey include fragments of medieval pottery, including the handle of a green wine jug associated with Saintonge ware, a type of pottery manufactured in western France since the 13th century. This discovery suggests that Caernarfon had international trade links during the Edwardian period.

Another intriguing find was the remnants of what appears to be a doorway or a fireplace. If it is a doorway, it could represent a previously unknown entrance to Caernarfon’s gate house, a building that controlled access to the town. If it is a fireplace, it could provide archaeologists with insights into the daily lives of the people who lived in Caernarfon during the medieval period.

The Significance of the Town Walls

The town walls of Caernarfon were more than just a defensive structure. They were also a symbol of Edward I’s authority and the dominance of the English over the Welsh. The walls enclosed a thriving community, with its own social and economic life.

Archaeologists are keen to learn more about the daily lives of the people who lived within the town walls. They hope that future excavations will uncover more evidence of their homes, businesses, and other aspects of their daily routines.

The Historical Context

Edward I’s conquest of Wales was a complex and bloody affair. The Welsh princes had long resisted English rule, but Edward was determined to bring Wales under his control. After a series of campaigns, Edward forced the Welsh princes into submission and established English rule over the region.

Caernarfon played a key role in Edward’s conquest. The castle and town walls were symbols of his power and authority. They also served as a base for English soldiers and administrators, who helped to maintain control over the Welsh population.

The Legacy of Caernarfon

Caernarfon remains a vibrant town today, with a rich history and a proud heritage. The town walls are a reminder of the town’s medieval past and its role in the struggle between England and Wales.

Archaeological excavations continue to uncover new insights into the lives of the people who lived in Caernarfon during the medieval period. These discoveries help us to better understand the history of Wales and the complex relationship between England and Wales.

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Marine Biology

An Unlikely Visitor: How a Walrus from Greenland Found Its Way to the Shores of Wales

by Peter
written by Peter

How a Walrus Found Its Way to the Shores of Wales

Initial Discovery and Identification

On March 20, the RSPCA in Wales received an unusual call. For the first time in its 200-year history, they were asked to investigate an Atlantic walrus resting on the coast of Pembrokeshire. This juvenile walrus, approximately the size of a cow, quickly became a local celebrity, with residents suggesting names like Wally, Isabelle, and Cain.

Origin and Journey

Experts believe that this walrus likely originated from either Greenland or the Norwegian archipelago Svalbard. Photographs suggest that it swam from Ireland to Wales in about six days, covering a distance of approximately 250 miles. It is suspected to be the same walrus spotted in Denmark in mid-February.

Physical Characteristics and Health

The walrus has tusks under four inches long, a common feature among walruses. Biologists were unable to determine its gender based on its tusks alone. Despite being far from its home, the walrus appeared to be in relatively good health. RSPCA animal rescue officer Ellie West observed that it was resting and slightly underweight but showed no signs of sickness or injury.

Behavior and Habits

Walruses are known to rest on land or sea ice, which is becoming increasingly scarce due to climate change. The walrus in Wales rested for about two days before returning to sea on March 22. It typically swims at an average speed of about four miles per hour, aided by its thick layer of insulating blubber.

Conservation Concerns

The RSPCA and the Welsh Marine Life Rescue closely monitored the walrus during its stay in Pembrokeshire to ensure its well-being and prevent disturbance. Lucy Babey, who leads science and conservation at ORCA, emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe distance from the walrus. “This animal is going to be pretty exhausted from all of its swimming,” she said. “It is probably going to be stressed out as it is not in an environment it is used to.”

Historical Context and Previous Sightings

While this was the first time a walrus had been spotted on the coast of Pembrokeshire, it is not the first instance of walruses visiting Ireland and Wales. Since 1979, there have been eight confirmed sightings of walruses in Ireland and a few in Scotland. In 2018, a walrus was observed traveling around various islands in Scotland for several months.

Scientific Significance

The presence of a walrus in Wales highlights the interconnectedness of marine ecosystems and the potential for long-distance travel by these animals. It also raises questions about the impact of climate change on walrus populations and their ability to find suitable resting and feeding grounds.

Public Response and Safety Precautions

The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group shared photographs comparing the walrus spotted in Ireland to the one in Wales, suggesting they may be the same individual. The RSPCA has requested that the public not approach the walrus if it reappears and to maintain a safe distance for both the animal’s well-being and their own safety.

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