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A golden opportunity to examine what life was like in a Pembrokeshire castle nine hundred years ago was too good to pass up recently, unearthing some intriguing artefacts.
The archaeological investigation at Carew Castle, which is managed by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, revealed an undercroft dating from the 12th or 13th century during a dig prompted by upcoming enhancement works.
Archaeologist Peter Crane at recent dig in Carew Castle prior to Lesser Hall renovations.
The archaeological investigation at Carew Castle, which is managed by the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority, revealed an undercroft dating from the 12th or 13th century during a dig prompted by upcoming enhancement works.
The castle, has planning permission for works to provide a replacement roof, doors and windows to the Lesser Hall.
The Authority’s Archaeologist Pete Crane, who led the excavation in this protected area, said “What we’ve discovered is the earlier remains of a masonry building and steps, stripped of their stone, leading down to an undercroft that dates to the late 1100s or early 1200s.
“We have always known about these structures but didn’t know if any remains survived, so it was intriguing to discover the actual walls of the building.
“We’ve uncovered all sorts of fascinating kitchen detritus including sheep, fish and bird bones, a medieval floor tile, pottery shards, a Tudor flagon and roof slates and we look forward to receiving the results of analysis of this material which might throw some light on what the pottery contained.
“The dig pre-dates what remains of Carew Castle today, which was largely the work of Sir Nicholas de Carew who was responsible in particular for the east and west ranges, and probably built by the early 1300s.”
Carew Castle Manager Teresa Hogsflesh said: “Works to the Lesser Hall to provide a new roof have now started. The site remains open to the public and it’s a great opportunity to see how our generation is adding its own touch to all those who have gone before.
The dig, which took place over two months and has recently been completed, involved two volunteers and Carew Discovery Guide Andrea Griffiths. They assisted Pete with the painstaking excavation process, carefully removing finds and cataloguing prior to analysis.
Volunteer assists at Carew Castle excavation
Further excavation at the area, which eventually covered around three square metres, may take place at a later date, with the steps and masonry now covered in to protect the recent excavation.
Funding for the Carew Castle project is provided by the European Union, Cadw, Welsh Government and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.
For more information about Carew Castle and Tidal Mill, contact Carew Manager Teresa Hogsflesh on 01646 651782 or go to www.carewcastle.com.
Published 28 June 2012
