Classic Time Team Season 8 Episode 3 The Celtic Spring

The Classic Time Team season 8 episode 3, titled “The Celtic Spring”, explores the history and archaeology of the ancient Celtic civilization. The episode takes place in the beautiful valley of the River Dee in Wales, where the team investigates the remains of a large Iron Age hillfort and the surrounding landscape.

The team is led by the show's host, Tony Robinson, and includes a group of expert archaeologists, geophysicists, and historians. They begin their investigation by exploring the nearby fields and using advanced geophysical equipment to locate any hidden archaeological features.

As they walk through the lush green fields, the team discusses the importance of the River Dee in the ancient Celtic world. They explain that the Celts believed that water was a sacred element and that rivers, in particular, played a crucial role in their religion and spiritual beliefs.

The team then moves on to the hillfort itself, which is a massive stone structure perched on a hill overlooking the valley. They explain that hillforts were crucial to the ancient Celtic way of life; they were not just defensive structures but also acted as important social and economic centers.

The team begins their investigation by excavating a small section of the hillfort's wall. They carefully remove layers of soil, revealing the different building phases of the fort and the materials used to construct it. The archaeologists also find evidence of defensive structures, including a ditch and rampart, which would have been used to repel attacking forces.

As the investigation progresses, the team uncovers a wealth of new information about the ancient Celts. They find artifacts such as pottery, metalworking tools, and bronze jewelry, providing insights into the everyday lives of these ancient people. They also explore the surrounding lands, uncovering a network of underground tunnels and wells that would have been used for irrigation and water management.

Throughout the episode, the team explains the importance of conservation and preservation when dealing with ancient artifacts. They demonstrate how to carefully excavate and record every find, ensuring that important historical information is not lost forever.

Finally, the team concludes their investigation by summarizing their findings and reflecting on what they have learned about the ancient Celtic civilization. They explain how their work can help us better understand the everyday lives of the Celtic people and how they interacted with the river and landscape around them.

Overall, the Classic Time Team season 8 episode 3 is an engaging and informative exploration of ancient Celtic history and archaeology. The team's enthusiasm and expertise make for a fascinating journey through time, as they reveal the secrets of this ancient civilization and the majesty of their way of life.