Classic Time Team Season 7 Episode 10 In Search of the Palace of King Offa
- March 5, 2000
- 49 min
In this episode of Classic Time Team, the team takes on the challenge of finding the Palace of King Offa. King Offa was an Anglo-Saxon king who ruled from 757 to 796 AD and is widely known for constructing Offa's Dyke, a massive earthwork that stretches across the border between England and Wales.
The team sets out to unearth the remains of the palace that is believed to have been built by King Offa himself. The palace is thought to have been located in Sutton Walls, a fortified hilltop settlement in Herefordshire, England.
The team begins by conducting a geophysical survey of the site in order to identify areas of interest that could potentially be the remains of the palace. The survey reveals several anomalies that indicate the presence of buildings and other features.
As they begin to dig, they uncover a series of postholes that suggest the presence of a large structure. Further excavation reveals a series of walls and other architectural features that are consistent with a palace. The team also uncovers a number of artifacts, including pottery, coins, and metal objects, that provide clues to the palace's construction and history.
As they continue to dig, the team uncovers evidence of multiple phases of construction and renovation, suggesting that the palace was an important and continually evolving center of power during the Anglo-Saxon period.
Throughout the episode, the team consults with experts in Anglo-Saxon history and architecture in order to better understand the significance of their findings. They also discuss the political and social context of the time period, which helps to shed light on the role the palace played in the kingdom of Mercia during King Offa's reign.
Finally, the team presents their findings to an audience of local residents and historians, providing a glimpse into the fascinating world of Anglo-Saxon Britain and the legacy of King Offa.
Overall, In Search of the Palace of King Offa is a fascinating exploration of a little-known piece of history, showcasing the incredible skills and expertise of the Time Team as they work to shed light on the mysteries of the past.