Ep 3. Viking Treasure

In season 4, episode 3 of Digging for Britain, archaeologists explore the fascinating history of Viking treasure in Britain. Host Alice Roberts takes viewers on a journey through some of the most impressive archaeological sites in the country, revealing the hidden treasures left behind by the Vikings over a thousand years ago.

The episode begins with a look at the discovery of a Viking hoard in North Yorkshire, one of the largest and most valuable finds of its kind in Britain. Archaeologists from the British Museum are called in to excavate the site, which yields a wealth of artefacts including silver coins, arm rings, and precious jewellery. As they examine the hoard, the team begins to uncover clues about the Vikings' trading networks and the wealth they amassed through their interactions with other cultures.

Next, the show travels to the Scottish island of Iona, where a team of archaeologists are hoping to uncover evidence of a Viking raid. The Vikings were notorious for their attacks on Christian monasteries, and Iona was a prime target during the Viking Age. As they excavate the site, the archaeologists discover evidence of an early Christian church that was destroyed by fire, along with Viking artefacts that suggest a violent conflict took place. By piecing together the clues, the team is able to paint a vivid picture of the raid and its aftermath.

The episode then turns to the story of a remarkable Viking woman, Gudrid Thorbjarnardottir, who made an epic journey from her homeland in Iceland to the New World over a thousand years ago. Gudrid was one of the most well-travelled women of her time, and she left behind a trail of archaeological evidence that sheds light on her life and adventures. In the episode, Alice meets with archaeologists who have been excavating a Viking settlement in Newfoundland, Canada, where Gudrid is thought to have lived for a time. By exploring the site and examining the artefacts found there, the team is able to piece together the story of Gudrid's remarkable journey.

Finally, the episode explores the legacy of the Vikings in Britain today. Although the Viking Age is long gone, its impact on British culture can still be seen in everything from our language to our place names. Alice meets with experts who are working to preserve and share the legacy of the Vikings, from a group of reenactors who bring Viking battles to life, to a team of conservators who are working to restore a Viking-era helmet to its former glory.

Overall, season 4, episode 3 of Digging for Britain offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Vikings, their treasures, and their impact on British history and culture. Through a combination of archaeology and storytelling, the episode brings to life the people and events of the Viking Age, revealing a rich and complex history that continues to fascinate and inspire us today.