2022 Site Contenders
We’re delighted to share our updated 2022 Site Contenders list!
Many of the 2022 Site Contenders bring us closer to pivotal moments in British history – the transition from Roman occupation to Anglo-Saxon settlement; the Norman Conquest; the rise of Medieval chivalry and knightly military orders; and exploration of the New World.
Remember, we can only look at any of these sites with your support. Please join us on Patreon to help us fund more digs.
Site Contenders
Site A: Anglo-Saxon site in Norfolk
This East Anglian site in the early Saxon heartland has revealed a number of interesting Anglo-Saxon artefacts, including several beautiful and intricate personal items on a par with some of those found at Sutton Hoo. This site, with evidence of burials, presents the opportunity to test our state-of-the-art surveying technology and post-excavation techniques to help shed new light on often-elusive Anglo-Saxon archaeology. Evidence of a possible Roman settlement adds an additional layer of intrigue to the site’s history.
Site B: Medieval priory site in the Midlands with links to the US
An intriguing site with links to the Knights Templar near an imposing Medieval castle, with its origins stretching back to the Norman Conquest. Somewhere in the United States, there is a Medieval priory, originally from England, that might just have a link with the church that claimed to be on the site of a late Roman building containing a fragment of the True Cross. Time Team want to go back to that original site and see what is left, so the priory in the United States can be linked to its original church and graveyard.
Site C: A Knights Hospitallers preceptory in the North of England
Introducing a previously un-investigated Knights Hospitallers preceptory. Although recorded in historical documents, its exact site and extent has never been firmly established. Working with the local village group and the landowners, we will be hoping to find out what an extensive complex series of mysterious earthworks are hiding. We would also like to unlock the secrets of the church there, a building itself which confuses the experts as to its date – does it contain any hidden parts of the original preceptory chapel?
Site D: Roman building beneath a housing development in Dorset
The notion of ‘history on your doorstep’ couldn’t be more apt for this site. A modern housing development was built quite literally on top of a Roman building, with evidence of mosaics. The wider area is steeped in history and has been a popular and rewarding location for classic Time Team episodes over the years. The locals have taken keen interest in their neighbourhood’s history, making this site a great contender for a ‘Dig Village’ style community test-pitting strategy.
Site E: Village community test pit site in Suffolk
Reputedly the last resting place of a Viking king defeated by King Alfred, the village also has connections to early Colonial settlers of North America. This village site offers a window into several key phases of British history and the development of villages, while being an ideal project to involve the local community in discovering more about the history that surrounds them.
Site F: A multi-period ancient Greek settlement
An incredible opportunity to lend Time Team’s support to an ongoing research project in the heart of Greece. Our friends are investigating a strategically important ancient city and stronghold, which is gradually being revealed through modern archaeological techniques. Test excavation has revealed stone structures of multiple phases, and there is the possibility of monumental archaeology on site. This is a unique chance to take Time Team overseas, collaborate with international colleagues and learn from shared practices.
We are currently debating the sites on Patreon. Join us to find out more and have your say!