Description

The excavation at Glyn, Llanbedrgoch, revealed rich early medieval evidence, shedding light on Wales' 5th-11th century transformation.

Published in association with Amgueddfa Cyru.

The discovery between 1989 and 1993 of early medieval artefacts and coins by metal detectorists from fields around Glyn farm, Llanbedrgoch, Anglesey led to a long-term programme of archaeological investigations by Amgueddfa Cymru. Excavations revealed rich evidence for human activity from the Mesolithic period to the present.

Site 2 has provided remarkable early medieval evidence of its evolution from a small Romano-British farm to a developing regional centre from the 7th century, and an important commercial centre for the kingdom of Gwynedd by the 10th century. The programme of excavations produced a rich archaeological record of political and cultural transformation in pre-Norman Wales. The excavated evidence shows an influx of material culture that is mixed, vibrant and in tune with the data from other sites around the Irish Sea and the Continent.

This publication integrates all the archaeological evidence discovered, including buildings from Viking-age Wales and objects made, cherished, consumed, destroyed and repaired. Eight early medieval burials provide data on personal appearance, health, diet and origins (including slavery). Facial reconstructions have been undertaken for four of them. New artefact classifications and interpretations are provided, and the detailed catalogues presented include dress accessories, hacksilver, household equipment and quernstones from early medieval Wales. The social, economic and political contexts of the evidence are discussed.