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The tradition of exchanging gifts during this festive period has deep historical roots. From ancient feasts to modern celebrations, the custom of gift-giving has evolved but continues to symbolise thoughtfulness, care, and connection.
A Brief History of Gift-Giving
Gift-giving likely began in prehistoric times as a way to strengthen bonds and build trust between communities. During the Neolithic period, people gathered at sacred sites like Stonehenge for winter solstice feasts, exchanging goods as tokens of goodwill.
In pre-Roman Britain, Druids gifted sacred mistletoe sprigs to wish good fortune and fertility, while Romans celebrated Saturnalia with feasting, parties, and exchanging symbolic gifts - including toys for children! As Christianity spread, gift-giving merged with religious traditions, influenced by the Magi’s gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. By the Victorian era, thoughtful, handmade presents symbolised care and creativity, shaping many customs we cherish today.
If you’re searching for a last-minute gift for the archaeology enthusiast, look no further! We’ve gathered recommendations from our CBA staff. From practical tools to creative keepsakes, here are their top picks.
Books & Exploration Tools
"Local: A Search for Nearby Nature and Wildness" by Alastair Humphreys. This inspiring book encourages exploring everyday landscapes with curiosity and a fresh perspective. - Neil, Executive Director
OS Maps Subscription - Perfect for planning adventures and discovering new heritage sites.
Pevsner Architectural Guides - A must-have for architecture and history lovers. These detailed guides provide in-depth information on historic buildings across the UK. - Cat, Listed Building Casework and Advocacy Manager
Explore more books in our store and get 80% off with membership.
Art & Jewellery
Sandulf’s Cross Jewellery - Inspired by Viking-era designs, including the earliest known depiction of a Viking woman. Perfect for history and art lovers who appreciate wearable archaeology. - Claire, Development Manager
Chocolate Archaeology Bundle - Almost too good to eat, this edible chocolate art is replicated from genuine ancient archaeological finds. Including one Chocolate Flint Hand Axe, and one Chocolate Roman Bronze Lappet. Available in milk chocolate or white chocolate. - Jessica, Comms and Marketing Manager (and chocolate lover)
Unique Keepsakes
Histomap - Four Thousand Years of World History - A captivating visual timeline of global history, ideal for curious minds and history enthusiasts. - Tejaswi, Audience and Network Officer
Archaeology-Themed Candles - Evoking the spirit of ancient sites, these beautifully scented candles bring warmth and atmosphere to any home. - Jo, Delivery and Engagement Manager
Practical Gifts
Dual-Palm Rechargeable Hand Warmers - A perfect gift for any archaeologist who knows the cold chill of a winter morning on a dig site or in a breezy building. These rechargeable hand warmers double up as a phone charger, with a USB port, meaning you can stay warm and connected! - Ally, Listed Building Caseworker / JCNAS database coordinator
Experience Gifts
Consider archaeology experience days from Mercian Archaeological Services. A perfect hands-on gift for those eager to unearth history themselves.
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Handmade & DIY Gifts
Gift-giving doesn’t have to be expensive. Sometimes the most meaningful presents are handmade with love and creativity. Here are some thoughtful DIY ideas:
Victorian-Inspired Crafts - Create archaeology-themed gifts with fun crafts from our Young Archaeologists’ Club Christmas Activity Blog.
Personalised Keepsakes - Consider crafting a custom archaeology-themed ornament or framed map of a favourite historical site.
CBA Membership or Subscription to British Archaeology
For anyone passionate about history and heritage, consider gifting a membership to the Council for British Archaeology (CBA) or a subscription to British Archaeology magazine.
Membership includes:
- Subscription to British Archaeology Magazine – Bi-monthly updates on the latest archaeological research, news, and articles from leading archaeologists.
- Access to Our Digital Archive
- Free Monthly This Is Archaeology Lectures & Watch On-Demand
- Monthly E-Newsletters
- 80% Off Books in Our Shop
By giving this thoughtful gift, you’re sharing a love of history while supporting an important cause.