The sacred landscape of Wales is a secret known only to a few. This living work of art, entwined with history, culture and mythology has the power to inspire the mind and soothe the soul. Our amazing ancient churches and chapels have sat quietly in the background for centuries; their stories hidden deep within, their features and fittings understood only by a few, their immense age, their power to excite the mind, buried deep. Wales is said to be the castle capital of the world, with more castles per square mile than any other country. But what many people don’t know is that our churches are even older than our castles. These are places where people witnessed the Norman invasion, where 5th century saints were lured by the landscape, where holy wells sprung up and crowds gathered in awe. They are the final resting place of heroes and poets, places to pause and reflect; a breathing space in a busy city. These are the buildings that have shaped us, that have witnessed all life for millennia. Usually the oldest building in an town or village by centuries, churches are full of stories, and can rival any castle for mystery, intrigue and atmosphere. Every church has a story to tell.
The Council for British Archaeology’s Festival of Archaeology incorporates hundreds of in-person and virtual events showcasing the very best of archaeology across the UK, delivered by individuals, groups, institutions and commercial organisations.
Discover the impact of the 2024 Festival of Archaeology! From exploring community connections to celebrating our shared heritage, this year’s theme of 'Archaeology and Community' highlights the essential role of grassroots support. Dive into the festival’s highlights and learn how we’re shaping the future of archaeology with initiatives like the Reconnecting Archaeology project. Explore the festival's journey, insights from our Taking the Temperature survey, and how we’re championing archaeology across the UK!
Dr Claire Corkill, development manager, and Debbie Frearson, festival coordinator, reflect on this year's festival, share details of how to access the CBA's resources, and look ahead to next year's event
The 2024 Festival of Archaeology was a whirlwind of exploration, discovery, and community engagement. Our Executive Director, Neil, took us on an incredible journey across the UK, sharing his experiences and highlights through his social media updates. Here’s a detailed look back at Neil’s adventures and the amazing events he attended during the festival.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Roman Britain with the Festival of Archaeology 2024, spanning from July 13th to July 28th. Explore a few of our upcoming Roman events.