Peterborough's archaeology
We have a large collection of local archaeological finds which
reflect human occupation of the area since the earliest times. The
period spans the Old Stone Age (Palaeolithic), over 200,000 years
ago and includes the Bronze & Iron Ages as well as Roman,
Anglo-Saxon and Medieval.
The archaeological collection and archive is still growing as
new building development uncovers further remains around the
Peterborough area. Notable amongst the collections are finds from
the prehistoric settlements at Fengate, including Britain's oldest
known murder victim, Nene Valley Ware from the local Roman pottery
industries, town and fortress and fine grave goods from
Anglo-Saxon burials, including a hanging bowl and recreated face of
a Saxon Woman from the BBC's 'Meet the Ancestors' series.
One of our most remarkable archaeological finds is an Iron Age sword, which was
recently returned to the Museum having been stolen some years
ago.