Ep 1. Bridge on the River Wye

In season 1, episode 1 of Extreme Archaeology, viewers are taken to the Bridge on the River Wye in the United Kingdom, where archaeologists embark on a journey to uncover the history of this iconic landmark. The show follows a team of experts as they uncover the secrets of this historic bridge and the people who built it.

The episode begins with a brief history of the Bridge on the River Wye, which was built in the 18th century to replace an earlier wooden structure. The bridge was a crucial part of the transport network in the area, connecting the town of Chepstow to the villages on the other side of the river. Over the years, the bridge has undergone several repairs and restorations, but little is known about its original construction.

To uncover the secrets of the bridge, the archaeologists use a combination of traditional and cutting-edge techniques. They begin by examining the bridge from the surface, looking for any clues that might reveal its history. They also use a drone to capture high-resolution images of the bridge from above, which they can then use to create detailed 3D models of the structure.

Next, the team moves underwater to explore the foundations of the bridge. Using diving equipment and a remote-controlled submersible, they search for any remnants of the original construction. They also use sonar to create a detailed map of the riverbed, which helps them to identify any areas of interest.

As the archaeologists uncover more about the bridge, they begin to piece together a picture of the people who built it. They discover that the bridge was constructed using a combination of local and imported materials, suggesting that the builders had significant resources at their disposal. They also find evidence of sophisticated construction techniques, such as the use of iron bolts to hold the stones in place.

One of the most exciting discoveries made by the archaeologists is a series of markings on the stones used to build the bridge. These markings, known as mason's marks, were used to identify the work of individual stonemasons. By examining the marks, the archaeologists are able to identify the craftsmen who worked on the bridge and trace their work to other buildings in the area.

Throughout the episode, the archaeologists face a number of challenges, including difficult weather conditions and the unpredictable nature of the river. However, their dedication and expertise ultimately pay off, as they uncover an unprecedented amount of information about the history of the Bridge on the River Wye.

Overall, Extreme Archaeology season 1, episode 1 provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of underwater archaeology and the process of uncovering the secrets of a historical landmark. The episode is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in the process of uncovering the past.