Time Team Season 3 Episode 2 Oxford

Time Team Season 3 Episode 2: Oxford

In this episode of Time Team, Tony Robinson and his team of archaeologists travel to the ancient city of Oxford, one of the most historic and iconic locations in the United Kingdom. With a rich history dating back over a thousand years, Oxford offers a multitude of archaeological treasures waiting to be discovered.

The team's objective is to delve into the city's past by investigating fascinating sites that reveal clues about Oxford's origins and its evolution over time. These include hidden remnants of ancient buildings, forgotten burial grounds, and other historical landmarks. By carefully examining the layers of history beneath the modern cityscape, the team aims to unveil the secrets of Oxford's past.

Their first stop is Christ Church College, an iconic institution renowned for its prestigious history and extensive grounds. The archaeologists explore the college's gardens, hoping to uncover evidence of an old Roman road that once ran through the area. As they meticulously excavate, they uncover ancient artifacts, giving insight into the daily lives of the Roman inhabitants of Oxford.

Next, the team heads to the charming village of Islip, just outside Oxford. Here, they investigate the remains of an old manor house, which is believed to have been the childhood home of Edward the Confessor, an important historical figure in British history. By examining the ruins and analyzing the surrounding landscape, the archaeologists hope to shed light on the structure's original form and gain a deeper understanding of the manor's historical significance.

Moving on, the team ventures to Fyfield, a picturesque countryside village near Oxford. Here, they examine a 90-meter-long burial mound known as a long barrow. With the help of geophysical surveys, the archaeologists hope to gather data about the structure's interior and better understand its purpose. As they carefully excavate the site, they uncover a series of bones, offering intriguing insights into the lives and burials of the ancient Britons who once inhabited the area.

The last site explored in this episode is the grounds of Blenheim Palace, a stunning country house and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the early 18th century, the palace boasts extensive gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Capability Brown. Time Team investigates the palace grounds in search of evidence of a medieval village that once thrived in the area. By employing cutting-edge technology, they reveal buried structures and artifacts, bringing to light the lives of the forgotten villagers who once called Blenheim home.

Throughout the episode, Tony Robinson and his team face various challenges, from adverse weather conditions to the limitations of time and resources. However, they persevere, employing their expertise and collaborating with local historians and experts to tackle each new investigation.

Join Time Team in this exciting episode as they unravel the mysteries of Oxford's past. With each discovery, they piece together a more complete picture of the city's history and the people who lived and shaped it over the centuries. From Roman roads to forgotten villages, this episode offers a captivating exploration of Oxford's fascinating archaeological heritage.