One of the most exciting things about archaeology is the finds. Holding an artefact that has been buried for 5000 years is a unique experience. A range of finds with a wide date range were recovered from topsoil and underlying layers representing the very mixed and disturbed nature of these deposits. These included early and late Neolithic flint, much of which comprised burnt, retouched tools and pottery ranging in date from early Neolithic (20 sherds) through to the Late Neolithic, Early/Middle Bronze Age and Late Bronze Age/Early Iron Age. This extensive date range illustrates interest in the site throughout the prehistoric period and into more modern times.
See some of the treasures we have come across so far.
View the BBC video of finds at the Quoit.
One of Cornwall’s best-known geologists visited the excavation and gave his expert comment on the stones. Colin Bristow told us that the monument lay right on the contact zone of the Carmenellis granite and the lower-lying killas.
In 2012 two excavations were held. The first was to make a preliminary investigation through test pits. The stones were then removed from the place where they had collapsed and the 'Big Dig' was undertaken.
This challenging archaeological project at Carwynnen Quoit kicked off to a fine and successful start in early July. Over 5 days the team opened up a number of small test pits in the area immediately around the stones as well as along the terrace, upon which, the ruins of this ancient monument, sit.
After 15 days of hard graft, great camaraderie, fun and palpable daily excitement, the Big Dig at Carwynnen Quoit came to a fitting finale on 3 October: the excavation had revealed the full extent of the original footprint of this megalithic monument.
