Ep 9. Flag Fen

Flag Fen is the ninth episode of the seventh season of Time Team, a British television series that explores the history of archaeological sites across the UK. In this episode, the team travels to Flag Fen, an extraordinary Bronze Age site that was once a wooden causeway spanning over a mile-long stretch of marshland in the fens of East England.

Led by presenter Tony Robinson, the Time Team joins forces with local volunteers and archaeologists to uncover the secrets of this mysterious site. They begin by using cutting-edge technology to scan the ground and create detailed maps of the surrounding landscape. This helps them to identify the exact location of the causeway and plan their excavation strategy.

Excavation work begins on the causeway, which was constructed over 3,000 years ago by Bronze Age people who lived in the fens. The team discovers evidence of the sophisticated engineering skills that were used to build this remarkable structure, including the use of wooden piling to anchor the causeway in place. They also find artifacts such as pottery shards and flint tools, which offer insights into the daily lives of the people who lived here.

As the excavation progresses, the team encounters some unexpected challenges. The causeway is located in an area that is prone to flooding, and heavy rainfall threatens to disrupt the project. However, the team rallies together and works to pump water out of the excavation site, enabling them to continue their work.

The team also faces challenges in their efforts to accurately date the site. Bronze Age sites are notoriously difficult to date, as they often lack materials such as pottery or coins that are commonly used in dating other archaeological sites. However, the team uses a combination of radiocarbon dating, dendrochronology (dating of tree rings), and stratigraphy (the study of layers of sediment) to piece together a timeline of the site's history.

As the excavation nears completion, the team makes a major discovery. They uncover what appears to be the remains of a Bronze Age temple, complete with wooden posts arranged in a circular pattern. This suggests that the site was not only a causeway, but also a sacred place of religious significance. The team is thrilled with their discovery, which sheds new light on the lives and beliefs of Bronze Age people in the fens.

Overall, Flag Fen is a fascinating episode of Time Team that showcases the thrill of archaeology and the rewards of teamwork. The site's unique location and challenges make it a particularly exciting project for the Time Team, who work tirelessly to uncover its secrets. Through their efforts, they offer new insights into the lives of people who lived over 3,000 years ago and help us to understand more about our shared history.