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Past Preservers Heritage Conservation Lascaux Threat Graffiti Archaeology

Past Horizons
Online Journal of Volunteer Archaeology and Training

Issue 1 : March 2008

Investigating the Iron Age Underworld


Excavations at High Pasture Cave, Skye
Volume I : No. 1
March 2008

Editors:
Felicity Donohoe
Maggie Struckmeier

Layout:
David Connolly

Past Horizons
Traprain House
Luggate Burn
Haddington
East Lothian
EH41 4QA

Tel: +44 (0)1620 861643


Email: editor@pasthorizons.com
Find us on the web: www.pasthorizons.com

Contributors:
Steven Birch
Annie Evans
Nigel Hetherington
Jamie Donahoe

10 cover story
Rona Walker

Additional Material:
Strevo
Craig Swanson High Pasture Cave: No ordinary settlement
Jon Welsh Steven Birch takes us into an Iron Age Underworld
Hans Hins

Front Cover:
Excavating within the Bone Passage
(credit: Steven Birch)

Disclaimer

8
Past Horizons can give no endorsement of any listed project or
guarantee the accuracy of the information supplied. The editors
accept no responsibility for any loss, injury, or inconvenience
sustained by anyone using the resources contained within this
magazine and/or the websites mentioned herein. When considering a
project, be sure to contact the director with any questions you might Lascaux - Cave Art Under Threat
have about conditions, travel, health issues, etc. Check for references A shocking article on the fungus that is literally eating
from previous participants, seek advice where possible and select a
project that will be of the greatest benefit to you, the project and the away the ancient cave paintings
team.

2 past horizons
Contents
16 18
Putting the Past into Perspective Graffiti : Writing on the Wall
Nigel Hetherington on bridging the A look at the importance and historical
gap between heritage experts and TV potential of what many see as vandalism
production crews

22 24
History in your Hands An Israeli Adventure
Jamie Donahoe introduces us to the work Rona Walker shares her experiences on a
of Heritage Conservation Network volunteer fieldwork project

Regulars
5 Editorial 28 Dig Cook
Annie Evans on culinary escapades
6 News during fieldwork with a delicious
Recent news stories from around the recipe each issue
world
30 Profile
21 Viewpoint We interview Professor David
David Connolly challenges us to Kennedy of the University of Western
examine the long term effects of Australia
volunteer archaeology
31 Crossword and Cartoons
27 Dig in.... Have a break and try this archaeology
A selection of volunteer projects crossword
around the world from the Past
Horizons website

3 past horizons
Eastern Sicily
in spring
Bare Bones Tours
We offer carefully planned itineraries with your own specialist
archaeologist, so that you can explore the ancient world - not just the
highlights, but also lesser-known sites, and really understand them.
A personal introduction by Dr Michael Metcalfe
who lives in Syracusa and is Lecturer in Ancient The Bare Bones formula allows you individual freedom within a group
History there. structure, so there is plenty of free time and the opportunity to go
All the highlights of the East of this large island, exploring alone, but enjoy like-minded company should you wish it.
and cross the straits of Messina to see the
amazing Riace bronzes.
11-18 May 2008 £1100 (Sgl Supp £95)
with Dr Michael Metcalfe
Pompeii in summer

The eruption of Vesuvius in AD79 devastated


lives and livelihoods throughout the Bay of
Naples. It also uniquely preserved the evidence
of those lives.
Our hotel for this summer tour is close to the
coast, has wonderful views over the Bay, and a
pool!
21-28 July 2008 £995 (Sgl Supp £145)
with Dr Andy Fear
Western Crete
in autumn

Archaeology in Tunisia
This unusual trip includes all the highlights of In the wide landscapes of northern Tunisia lie the ruins of Roman towns, more or less
the centre and west of the island of the unaltered since the 5th century AD. This is a trip of superlatives, exploring world-class
Minoans, and a walk down the fabulous Samaria sites in romantic landscapes and seeing mosaic art at its most sophisticated and
gorge. Aptera displays the entire story of the colourful. The story of the fall of Carthage, read from the vantage point of the Roman
archaeology of the island in its continuous forum, will remain with you long after you return!
occupation. An archaeological treat in beautiful
surroundings. 26 Oct - 2 Nov 2008 £950 (Sgl Supp £45) with Dr Denise Allen
7-14 Oct 2008 £1100 (Sgl Supp £120)
with Dr Georgina Muskett
Ring for further details, or visit our website...
01722
past horizons 713800 tours@andantetravels.co.uk
4 www.andantetravels.co.uk AITO - ATOL 3552
Editorial

Editorial
Welcome to the first edition of Past Horizons
online magazine, dedicated to volunteering in archaeology
and heritage conservation around the world.

Our main feature (pg 10) takes a look at the enigmatic


High Pasture Cave on the Scottish island of Skye, where
archaeologist Steven Birch takes us on a fascinating
journey into the Iron Age underworld.

In Cave Art Under Threat (pg 8), we investigate the damage that has been done to the
famous Lascaux Cave in France and the ongoing dispute concerning the protection
of this unique site.

We all have concerns about the way archaeology is presented in the media. Nigel
Hetherington describes how his company, Past Preservers, bridges the gap between
heritage experts and TV production crews in this article (pg 16).

We move onto building conservation, written by Jamie Donahoe of American


organisation Heritage Conservation Network. She describes the positive effects that
volunteering can have both for individuals and the local community (pg 22).

In the next article Graffiti: Writing on the Wall (pg 18) David Connolly gives us a
background story on the subject of graffiti and offers some advice on the range of
techniques that he uses to record it.

Finally, Edinburgh archaeology graduate Rona Walker writes about her experiences
while volunteering on an excavation in northern Israel (pg 24).

In addition to the features there will be the regulars for you to enjoy each quarterly
issue. The News and Small Finds section lets you know what’s happening in the
world of archaeology, while the Viewpoint written by David Connolly of British
Archaeological Jobs and Resources will provide a thought-provoking challenge,
guaranteed to open up discussion.

We are proud to present to you Annie Evans, Dig Cook, who will provide us with
one of her mouth-watering recipes every issue, while Profile will feature a question-
and-answer session with a leading archaeologist.

Do the crossword, laugh at the cartoons and most of all enjoy the read……. we
hope to hear from you with your views.

uckmeier
Maggie StrMaggie Struckmeier

5 past horizons
Remarkable Roman remains
NEWS I t is not often that archaeologists get to open the lid of a
Roman coffin, but in December 2007 Wessex Archaeology
announced just that.

It was during an excavation at Boscombe Down, Wiltshire,


England that they discovered the three ton undisturbed stone
coffin. With great excitement they removed the soil from
around the coffin and looked inside with an infra red camera.
On the removal of the lid to their surprise they found that the
inside was free of soil and in an excellent state of preservation.
The coffin touchingly contained the skeleton of a woman
with a young child cradled in her arms.

The unique environment within the coffin has allowed


some of the clothing to survive even after 1800 years. The
woman was wearing fur-lined luxury deerskin and cork
slippers imported from the Mediterranean, while the child
was wearing soft calf skin shoes. The woman also wore a necklace of Whitby jet and a
bronze ankle bracelet. By her head had been placed a small lustrous pot imported from
France, the contents of which would have provided something to drink for the final
journey to the next world.

The sarcophagus, dating to around 220 AD, is the earliest burial that Wessex Archaeology
have excavated in this cemetery. The other coffins, clustered around it, were all made of
wood. In contrast, their occupants wore hobnail boots and were furnished with locally
made copies of imported pottery.

Wessex Archaeology have now released a video, filmed as they were removing the lid.
To watch the video, click play button on the controls above and then zoom in.

Hyperlinks : (click to view)


> Wessex Archaeology : http://www.wessexarch.co.uk/
> Entire film of the Boscombe Down Coffin excavation : http://tinyurl.com/28ggfa

past horizons 6
Small Finds
Archaeologist ‘Strikes Gold’ with finds of ancient Nasca iron ore mine in Peru
“A Purdue University archaeologist discovered an intact ancient iron ore mine in South
America that shows how civilizations before the Inca Empire were mining this valuable ore”
Read Full Story: http://tinyurl.com/27bqk9 (Science Daily)

Ancient mass sacrifice, riches discovered in Chinese tomb


“A 2,500-year-old tomb containing nearly fifty victims of human sacrifice has been excavated
in China, yielding a treasure trove of new insights into customs during the era of Confucius”
Read Full Story: http://tinyurl.com/yrepw8 (National Geographic)

New tests on rare polar bear find in Scotland


“Scientists hope to unlock secrets contained in the DNA of what are believed to be the only
polar bear remains to be found in Britain dating to 18,000 BCE.”
Read Full Story: http://tinyurl.com/yt9wvh (BBC News)

Found at last: the world’s oldest missing page


“Fifth-century Christian text turns up under floor in Egypt, bringing early church martyrs to
light. It is the oldest dated Christian text in existence”
Read Full Story: http://tinyurl.com/2nl4zn (The Independant)

Gene studies confirm “Out of Africa” theories


“Two big genetic studies confirm theories that modern humans evolved in Africa and then
migrated through Europe and Asia to reach the Pacific and Americas.”
Read Full Story: http://tinyurl.com/2fmhal (Yahoo News)

Royal goddesses of a Bronze Age state


“More than 30 years after Italian archaeologists found a vast archive of 17,000 cuneiform
tablets, the Bronze Age site of Ebla in Syria is still surprising those who work there. ”
Read Full Story: http://tinyurl.com/2dzx64 (Archaeology.org)

Unlocking mysteries of the Parthenon


“Over 2,500 years, the Parthenon endured earthquakes, fire, explosions, looting & misguided
preservation. The Athenians built it in just nine years. Repairing it is taking longer!”
Read Full Story: http://tinyurl.com/39vy8n (Smithsonian Magazine)

For more news stories that are updated constantly, try:


Past Horizons News Blog: http://pasthorizons.wordpress.com/category/news-and-articles/
Stonepages Weekly News and Podcast: http://www.stonepages.com/news/
CBA Archaeology News Feed: http://www.britarch.ac.uk/newsfeed/

7 past horizons
Lascaux: Art Leg
Facing Extinct
by M Struckmeier
Images by Hans Hins

T he Cave of Lascaux in the Dordogne


region of SW France is famous for
some of the finest examples of Palaeolithic
In a last ditch attempt to stop the spread,
the authorities controversially poured
quicklime over the floor. This aggressive
The Cave of Lascaux was
discovered on 12 Sept. art ever seen. treatment did have the desired effect but as
1940 when four friends a result the internal temperature of the cave
and their dog disappeared But now, for the second time in a decade rose. Compresses soaked in antibiotics and
through a hole. The boys the Cave has had to be closed to allow fungicides were then applied to the walls
had stumbled upon a vast scientists to treat approximately seventy in a desperate bid to halt the growth.
cave, its walls decorated
with colourful paintings grey/black blemishes which have appeared
of leaping stags, buffalo in the passages. In 2002 the fungus had retreated, but where
and prehistoric horses, it had been treated there were now blackish
believed to date to about The initial problems arose in 2000 when it spots. Authorities controversially resorted
14,000 B.C. was decided to modernise the temperature to the highly invasive procedure of scraping
The Cave itself consists of and humidity regulator. Not long after away the fungal roots with scalpels.
a large entrance chamber this work was completed, a white fungus
and two main “galleries” called Fusarium Solani appeared and From the beginning of the crisis the curator
- the Great Hall of the began spreading across the walls and of Lascaux Jean-Michel Geneste has
Bulls and the Painted ceiling. This is a common fungus found always denied there is a problem, stating
Gallery - with about
1,500 engravings and 600 around the Lascaux agricultural area, and that the cave is now stable, there has been
drawings in yellow, red and one theory is that the people working on no damage to the paintings and that the
black mineral pigments. the system did not sterilise their shoes fungus has disappeared naturally.
each day, thereby bringing the fungus with
them. By 2001 the mould had formed a Furthermore, the decision to construct a
white mass over the floors and ledges of car park over the top of it for visitors to
the painted chambers. The French heritage Lascaux II could potentially harm the cave
authorities agreed to the use of antibiotics from the outside also, with the weight of
and fungicides to try and stop the spread cars, construction materials and exhaust
but it soon became clear that the fungus fumes increasing stress on the already
had developed a resistance to the sprays. fragile environment.
LINKS
click to view

International Committee for


the Preservation of Lascaux:
www.savelascaux.org/

World Heritage in Danger:


whc.unesco.org/en/danger/

Lascaux Cave website:


http://tinyurl.com/24zko

past horizons 8
gacy
tion
When the problems were pointed out to the risk of being damaged beyond repair. One of the most recognisable
French ambassador to the United States, The International Committee for the pieces of art in the world,
apart from blaming global warming, he Preservation of Lascaux summarised the this panel is in the Hall of the
Bulls.
stated that the visitors to Lascaux (over situation: “Unless change is undertaken
2000 a day in the first two decades of its quickly, the world stands to lose Lascaux’s
opening in 1945) were the ones responsible irreplaceable masterpiece and its rich story
for bringing the fungus into the Cave. of mankind’s place in time.”

In 1998, lichens were found to be growing This signals the urgency that now surrounds
in the cave, with the implication that they Lascaux and the need for firmer direction
had lain dormant in the stable conditions in deciding the cave’s future. Until now,
of the atmosphere from the opening of the French government has failed to stem
the Cave in the 1940s. “the World stands the tide of erosion and
The government took no damage, and it is perhaps
to lose Lascaux’s
action against the lichen time for an international
and instead decided to
irreplaceable body to step forward and
swap the old passive-air masterpiece” demand changes in policy
system which re-circulated air naturally regarding the preservation of Lascaux.
for a forced-air system which may have
activated the spores. There is some hope, however. Unesco
is sending a delegation of specialists to
No-one seems to be willing to accept the cave to determine whether Lascaux
responsibility for the failure, and with four should be included on the World Heritage Below, left to right
different goverment departments charged in Danger list. If this should happen, the The Fleeing Horse bracing at
with the Cave’s care, it is difficult to find protection of the caves may well fall into the edge of a precipice over
out what the full story is and who took the the care of stronger, more knowledgeable which another horse has just
fallen, Axial Gallery
final decision to replace the system. hands, preserving the heritage and beauty
of Lascaux for future generations to enjoy. Fungicides and antibiotics
Lascaux is an important site which is at used in multiple and
ineffective massive sprayings
inside the cave.

Art restorer manually


removing fungus from the
Red Cow, Axial Gallery

Antibiotic compress applied


to Lascaux’s painted walls.
The Falling Cow over the
Frieze of Ponies, Axial
Gallery

9 past horizons
Investigating
the Iron Age
Underw
By Steven Birch
Co-Director High Pasture Cave & Environs Project
Images by Steven Birch

High Pasture Cave on the Isle of Skye


is a natural limestone cave that contains
a diverse assemblage of archaeological
deposits of prehistoric age. However,
although the cave appears to have been
the focus of the site during prehistory,
fieldwork carried out between 2004 and
2007 indicates use of the site from the
Mesolithic through to the Post-Medieval
period – around 6000 years of activity.
Although much work remains to be done,
investigations and post-excavation analysis
suggests the cave formed an important part
of the wider prehistoric landscape in Skye
between the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age
periods.

Archaeological material recovered from the


cave includes a series of structured deposits,
such as a wide range of votive offerings,
ad while much of this would have been
available locally, some of the finds point to
wider cultural contacts. The assemblage of
materials has produced several significant
finds. Features uncovered include pits
and post-holes, and a number of cellular
stone-built structures and revetment walls
associated with a large burnt mound. There
are also indications that fire played a major
role in activities including its use in cooking
and feasting, in the possible cremation of
animals, and in industrial processes such as
metalworking.

Access to the cave from the surface


was initially through a natural entrance,
comprising a walkway over abandoned
river-washed gravels and boulders.
Through time the entrance was modified;
at first this included a series of small steps
and a paved surface leading along a dry and
abandoned passage and down a steep ramp

Adult inhumation in top of backfilled stairwell

past horizons 10
world
to a junction with the underground stream. Around the 4th
century BC, a more elaborate entrance was constructed
comprising a steep stone-built stairwell, over which was
built a corbelled roof.
Entering Bone Passage from base of stairwell.
It is most probable the site was utilised periodically, and
its function, particularly the cave, changed through time. musical instrument were placed in a gap between the
A study of the small finds and their distribution, along paving stones, while nearby a socketed iron axe and an
with the variation in the deposition of faunal remains, adze of similar form was recovered.
butchery techniques and quality of preservation, provides
clear evidence of this. Later phases of use, including that identified above the
upper paved granite floor in the cave, which has been
The earlier phases identified within the cave, dating to radiocarbon dated to between the 4th and 2nd century
the 9th century BC, provide evidence for the structured BC, indicates the continued deposition of material
comprising domestic-type midden. Included with this
“ fire played a major role in activities mix of materials are elements from the burnt mound
including cooking and feasting, that was accumulating at the surface throughout the use
the possible cremation of animals,
of the cave, including deposits of fire-cracked stone,
and in industrial processes such as
charcoal and heavily burnt bone. However, by this
metalworking. ”
phase the distribution of small finds is more even and
widespread throughout the archaeological deposits,
deposition of small finds, especially within the liminal with less emphasis placed on zonation within the cave.
zone where the paved walkway entered the natural cave
entrance. Here, caches of bone points and pins, spindle The range of small finds from the upper contexts
whorls, whetstones and a large saddle quern stone were in the cave on the whole comprise similar types of
recovered. This deposition continued along the walkway material including spindle whorls, bone pins, items
in the cave where a cache of seven tuning pegs from a manufactured from antler, a range of iron objects,
continued over the page

Above (left to right): Ink drawing of bone and antler pins and socketed adze from Bone Passage (before conservation).

11 past horizons
and stone tools including grinders, hammers, palettes, partial backfilling of Bone Passage with organic midden,
whetstones and quern stones. However, within these deposits of fire-cracked stone and granite boulders, and
deposits we also recovered glass beads and residues the complete backfilling of the stairwell. The final closing
relating to metalworking including hearth slabs, slag act was performed when human and animal remains
deposits, hammer-scale, and crucible and tuyere were placed in the top of the backfilled stairwell. These
fragments, the latter indicating the processing of copper-included the extended inhumation of a woman aged 30-
alloy. Although it appears likely that the metalworking 40 years, the combined remains of a perinate aged 7-9
was taking place on site, or at least somewhere close to months, a foetus aged 3-6 months, and the remains of a
High Pasture Cave, we have not yet found any evidence foetal pig. Preliminary analysis of the remains suggests
for these activities. excarnation may have been used before deposition of
the remains in their final resting place,
These finds are augmented by a rich while isotope analysis of the human
“ The cave appears
and varied faunal assemblage, the remains indicates that the perinate and
to have been the
remains of fish and shellfish, and burnt main focus at foetus were most likely directly related
plant remains, most likely relating to the site, a place to the woman. After the deposition of
feasting at the site, or deposited as votive where a surface the human and animal remains in the
offerings in activities centred on the cave. stream plunges stairwell, the area around the cave
It is the unusual composition of the bone underground into a entrance and the surface of the burnt
assemblage, including a predominance network of natural mound was landscaped using granite
of domesticated pig and evidence for passages. ” and limestone boulders. This final act
unusual butchery practices, that sets it may have been an attempt to disguise
apart from the other animal remains recovered from the the site from view, erasing the cave and its stairwell
site, and to animal bone assemblages generally recovered entrance from Skye’s Iron Age landscape.
from Iron Age sites in Scotland.
It is clear that High Pasture Cave is no ‘normal’ domestic
During these periods, archaeological evidence supported settlement. There is no evidence for dwellings and the site
by radiocarbon dates suggests the burnt mound was is set apart from the pattern of settlement identified through
accumulating in a horseshoe shape around the cave landscape survey in Strath Suardal. The cave appears to
entrance to form a major component of the site. Small have been the main focus at the site, a place where a
finds are less numerous but metalworking residues, surface stream plunges underground into a network of
waste from the manufacture of shale objects, stone natural passages. As shelters, depots, landmarks and
tools, ceramics and lithics have been recovered, and the tombs, caves have been focal points for human ritual and
distribution map shows a strong bias in favour of the subsistence activities. As such, archaeological evidence
cave entrance and bone passage from caves allows a glimpse of past societies’ cultural
understanding of natural places in the landscape, while
Radiocarbon dates indicate the intense use of the site the use of caves throughout human history transcends
between 850BC and 100BC, and it appears to have chronological divisions, suggesting they were re-used,
been formally ‘closed’ around 100BC. This included the re-invented and re-contextualised over millennia.

Post-medieval shielings Excavations in the burnt mound at the surface

past horizons 12
“Is it possible that
these sites are a form
of shrine, a place
where people gathered
together on special
dates in the Celtic
calendar to hold feasts
and make offerings to
their Gods?”

Stairwell entrance to cave

Therefore, how do we start to interpret the High Pasture souterrains and so-called ‘wells’ remain a mystery. At
Cave site primarily from the domestic domain? As Mine Howe in Orkney, the construction of stone-built
archaeologists it is difficult to differentiate between chambers and inter-connecting stairwells created an
economic and symbolic activities, especially at a site underground space, or artificial cave. Excavations have
where the mode of deposition and the range of materials revealed evidence for feasting, metalworking and the
changes through time. Items found in specialised deposition of the dead – at a location in the landscape set
contexts are often types that are directly associated with apart from the normal domestic realm.
the domestic domain within the settlements themselves.
Thus, the crucial distinction is not between different Is it possible that these sites are a form of shrine, a
kinds of object or between the roles that they had played place where people gathered together on special dates
in daily life, but rather, the manner in which they were in the Celtic calendar to hold feasts and make offerings
deployed when their use came to an end. Maybe it is the to their Gods? After all, Iron Age shrines used into the
form of deposition we are identifying at High Pasture Early Roman period have been identified in southern
Cave that sets these items apart from those employed in England. With such discoveries, it now appears that we
domestic life, providing them with a new emphasis. continued over the page

It has been suggested that these special activities needed


to happen in special places, potentially in locations cut
off from normal domestic activities or whose significance
was marked by the presence of some special form of
monument.(1) The cave at High Pasture could be classed
as a special type of monument in its own right – a passage
leading into the earth containing flowing water. In the Late
Bronze Age in particular, water sources such as springs,
lakes, rivers and bogs, were revered as special localities in
the landscape. Votive offerings were, and still are, tossed
into these natural places, which are believed to possess
healing powers and were also believed to be entrances
to the Otherworld. Bone Passage provided a ready-made
chamber, allowing continuous access and repeated use,
and through use the site was monumentalised.

The use of underground passages and chambers is well


known in the Iron Age landscapes of Atlantic Scotland,
most of which have been constructed by humans. However,
the function of many of these structures including the
Volunteer Sophie Laidlaw in Trench 14

13 past horizons
are dealing with an entirely new group of sites within the wider Atlantic
Iron Age landscape, and with the excavations at High Pasture, we have the
opportunity to take these initial interpretations forward and shed light on a
little-understood aspect of Iron Age life in Scotland.

“ it now appears that we are dealing with an


entirely new group of sites within the wider
Atlantic Iron Age landscape ”

Martin Wildgoose and Steven Birch are freelance archaeologists


based on the island of Skye. They hope to conclude fieldwork in 2009
with a view to publishing in 2012.

With thanks to partners Historic Scotland, the Society of Antiquaries of


Scotland, Highland 2007 Fund, Skye and Lochalsh Leader, university
archaeology departments, post-ex specialists and the volunteers.

For further details see www.high-pasture-cave.org.

Reference Granite saddle quern recovered from base of


1. Bradley, R., Ritual and Domestic Life in Prehistoric Europe, Routledge stairwell
(2005).

Excavating in Bone Passage

past horizons 14
15 past horizons
Putting the Past
into Perspective
Past Horizons talks with
Nigel Hetherington

Are there pyramids in Luxor? Did the Pharaohs have for production teams working in documentary and
electricity? Was Cleopatra a Hollywood beauty? Was fiction. Launched independently by archaeologist Nigel
there really a mummy’s curse? Was there a mummy on Hetherington in 2005, Past Preservers provides historical
the Titanic? Most experts would say the answer to all and archaeological consultancy and professional support
these questions is no, but we have seen the contrary in to the media industry.
many documentaries and films throughout the years. Yet
nobody actually sets out to make a bad show or mislead After five years working for Avid Technology as a
financial manager, Nigel decided to go back to university
the public, but these mistakes are normally made because
of either a lack of time or knowledge. to study a life-long passion; Egyptology. Little did he
know that his new interest would bring him back to
A lot of research work is done at home and polished by working in the media five years on. A BA and a Masters
interviews with experts on location. But what happens from University College London later, Nigel was working
when the crew goes home and the experts go to bed? as an archaeologist in Egypt where the first concept for
Past Preservers was born. He was working with world-
A new business operating out of Cairo and London renowned archaeologist, Dr. Kent Weeks, at the Valley of
has hopefully filled a market niche. Past Preservers is the Kings in Luxor and met many production companies
the first historical and cultural consultancy company coming to the Valley to film and looking for expert

past horizons 16
opinion on aspects of Egyptology from talking heads and in documentaries are keeping us all on our toes.”
local experts. The opportunity to make a business around
guiding production teams in their choice of locations and Post-production review of material might just keep the
check that they did not make any archaeological blunders scandal hungry at bay. Most companies can get the
was apparent. ground work done at home, but a company like Past
Preservers can give a programme the authentic edge it
As the idea germinated in the back of his mind, Nigel needs in a increasingly competitive environment.
had more contact with the media through his work for
The Theban Mapping Project and became increasingly The company has now diversified beyond the limits of
set on the idea of creating some kind of hub between the Egyptology and has a database of experts and talent broad
often misunderstood archaeological world and the media. enough to cover most historical and cultural questions a
“I wanted to see quality programs about the history of production team might have.
Egypt being made; it is such as well-loved topic that it
deserves to be portrayed in a way that all can appreciate Even with the producer and director involved in post-
without glossing over the details,’ says Nigel. ‘I saw production, the sequence of events and narrative put
an opportunity to provide expert counsel throughout the together in the editing suite are prey to misconceptions
creative process.” and errors that can affect the quality of the final product.
How many programmes have suffered from a lack of
Recent examples of on location work include a live critical review at the last moment? In our present day
telecast from the Valley of the Kings in Luxor where market perhaps a more holistic approach is needed to
the crew debated over the location of the cameras. ensure a competitive advantage.
Tutankhamun’s tomb was the final choice because Past
Preservers informed them that it was the only tomb From modest beginnings Nigel hopes to take the company
with a royal mummy in situ. A recently commissioned further. “We have worked with some big names now,
biographical documentary for Channel 4 did most of but I would like to look further into the possibilities of
its research at home, but needed someone like Past working on our own treatments for production companies
Preservers to give a local interpretation to the desk-based as well as offering guidance after the idea has already
work. been conceived.”

However, when the footage comes home and post- For more details visit
production get their hands on it, the link between the www.pastpreservers.com LINKS
local research knowledge and the editing suite can be click to view
lost. Nigel comments that, “Time restrictions and money Past Preservers
www.pastpreservers.com
issues can force us to play a hand that, even with the
Theban Mapping Project
best of intentions, might give an inaccurate portrayal of www.thebanmappingproject.com/
a topic. The recent BBC scandals over mis-information
17 past horizons
Graffiti

by
David Connolly

17th Lancers Graffiti on the Gate of Nations , Persepolis, Iran

past horizons 18
Vandalism or social commentary, it can all depend on your viewpoint.
Graffiti has been with us since the first humans made marks on cave walls

Past Horizons investigates and also provides a simple guide to recording graffiti

F rom earliest times, humans have found the need to


leave their mark, as an expression of self, a statement
that they existed. Graffiti, as we understand it today can
In 1856 archaeologist Raphael Garucchi actually used the
word graffiti when researching Pompeii. He wanted to
make a distinction between official inscriptions found on
range from a scratched name on a wall to spray painted the walls and the unofficial inscriptions of the ‘common
gang names declaring territorial rights. Modern materials people’. The common graffiti often used colloquialisms
of course make it much easier to make graffiti on a huge not found in the official language, and consisted of
scale, but whatever the method it will always sit in a grey curses, magic spells, literary quotes, political slogans
area between vandalism and social commentary. and declarations of love.

From an archaeological point of view graffiti can be of Perhaps some of the most interesting graffiti that
great historical interest as it can provide a more honest archaeologists have examined is that of the prisoner
glimpse into the lives of ordinary men and women graffiti at Edinburgh Castle. Carved into one of the
within society, their hopes, feelings, likes and dislikes. doors of the cells is thought to be one of the earliest
Instead of the official accounts of history written by depictions of the American Stars and Stripes. Another
those in power, it can tell us about political ambitions “Graffiti is a social comment on who
and affiliations of the time, provided in often direct and we are and what we stand for”
frank statements.
shows a gallows with the inscription ‘Lord North’, the
One of the earliest examples of ‘modern graffiti’ depicting British Prime Minister during the American Revolution.
the oldest job in the world can be found at Ephesus in The defiant etching was in response to his proposal that
Turkey and is thought to lead the reader to a nearby American prisoners be categorised as pirates or rebels,
brothel. In fact there are many references to prostitution rather than prisoners of war with all the attending
in the graffiti of the classical world which opens a debate privileges. In this way they could be held indefinitely
on the differences in attitude to that particular trade in unless they enlisted with the Navy
ancient times.
Graffiti is universal, it is a social comment on who we
The first person to look at graffiti seriously was an Italian are and what we stand for. Although we might wince
Antonio Bosio. In 1632 he published a systematic when we see it, we should not forget the legacy that it
description of all the official and non-official inscriptions leaves for the future. Whether it is ‘Ban the Bomb’ or
(he never referred to them as graffiti) to be found in the part of an expression and catalyst for the Rose Revolution
Roman Catacombs. Interestingly, he then went on to in Georgia, there is obviously a desire by some to be
leave his own signature in the Priscilla Catacomb. The represented in this way. Viewed from this angle, the
graffiti found in the catacombs helps inform researchers preservation of graffiti by formal recording will be a
about the extent of knowledge these early Christian valuable resource for the future.
pilgrims had of the names and events mentioned in the
Bible.
continued over the page

Opposite page top, from left: brothel advert, Ephesus, c. 1st century AD. Above, from left: Roman political graffiti, Pompeii,
c 79AD; Stars and Stripes, Edinburgh Castle, 1778/9; Hand prints in Beza, Spain, 20th century AD; Rose Revolution graffiti,
Tbilisi, 2003

19 past horizons
Recording Graffiti
Making a record of graffiti is an easy activity to carry out, and will be a real
benefit to future researchers. The three main types of graffiti are scratched/
etched, drawn with pencil or chalk, painted/sprayed.

As with the example below-right, the scratched names are only visible with
a raking light to catch the shadows and then the letters picked out in red,
using Photoshop.
Pen drawing of ship from Edinburgh Castle

Most graffiti is best recorded with a camera and with a note of the date and
location as well as the material used to create it. Some graffiti needs quite
a bit of work to make it visible like the ship drawing to the right. This was
achieved by manipulating the original photograph and then overpainting in
Adobe Photoshop.

You never know what you will find or record! For example, below, the
political graffiti demanding “Independence for Scotland” is written in chalk
and will disappear in a matter of days, but when photographed, the social
history of a moment in time is recorded.

Political graffiti in Edinburgh; Image courtesy of Strevo: Before and after: Photograph using a raking light
http://www.flickr.com/photos/strevs/ on graffiti, with overlaid transcription.

Right:
KELBURN Castle Graffiti Project
The idea is simple and original: take the
vibrant and often transient art form of
Brazilian graffiti out of its predominantly
urban context, and apply it to the ancient
and permanent walls of a historic rural
castle in Scotland

To watch the video, click the play button on


the controls above and then zoom in.

http://www.thegraffitiproject.net/

past horizons 20
VIEWPOINT
Where does our responsibility Start?
Many of us who have worked abroad will recognise this scene. We
arrive in a dusty village and take up residence for a month or two. The
villagers are friendly and make us welcome, inviting us into their lives as
we excavate their past. We employ them as the labour force and stay in their
houses, but what is the lasting effect on the local population beyond this?

In many of the sites I have worked on abroad (but by no means all), I have
seen a dislocation of purpose between what we want from the experience
and what the locals might expect. This forms the basis of my challenge.
Surely we have a responsibility to these often impoverished communities
which goes beyond the bounds of the trench? Discussions on local issues, Nokalakevi.

To illustrate this, in 2004, I was privileged to visit a joint Anglo-Georgian expedition to the site of Nokalakevi in
western Georgia where investigations continued on the Hellenistic, Byzantine and Colchian city. Students from
both Southampton and Tbilisi were trained by professionals, and a well formed research strategy underpinned the
expedition ( http://www.nokalakevi.org/ ). Whilst there, it became apparent that the infrastructure of the village was
in need of serious overhaul, and the museum, which once served the site, had been badly damaged by the fighting of
the 1990s. The museum had been given computers by an international aid agency, but with intermittent electricity
they could not be used. The dig houses and research building had been damaged in the fighting and moral was
understandably low.

After discussion with the local museum staff and villagers, it was decided that the minimum requirement would be
a generator, fuel and money to repair the roof and windows of the museum, with additional funds to allow the dig
house to be upgraded. An appeal fund was created and soon donations came pouring in. The Georgian government
was so impressed by the commitment, it also decided to provide funding, including the resurfacing of the pot-holed
road to Nokalakevi. The museum was restored, an education room created that could make use of the computers,
the dig house refurbished, and work began on the research centre.

The benefits to the community were tangible and lasting, and


given time, a sustainable future for the village will have been built An isolated case…?
on the foundations laid by an archaeological project.
These examples show how archaeology
can benefit more than just archaeologists:
David Connolly
Çatal Höyük in Turkey
www.catalhoyuk.com
Should this be one of the primary objectives Butrint in Albania
for all expeditions? www.butrintfound.dial.pipex.com
Crow Canyon Archaeological Centre
in Colorado
What do you think? www.crowcanyon.org/index.asp

If you want to comment, write to us at editor@pasthorizons.com

21 past horizons
History in your Hands

left to right
Painstaking paint removal
revealed the original silver,
gold and cream paint by Jamie Donahoe to conservation projects around the world.
scheme of the chapel of a Groups of 8-10 gather at a site to work with
17th century Manor house
Archaeologists and conservation professionals preservation professionals to accomplish the
in Oplotnica, Slovenia. The
know first hand the thrill of uncovering task at hand, such as repairing adobe walls or
municipality has gone on
to complete the restoration something from our past, whether it’s a fossil restoring a historic masonry bridge. Volunteer
initiated by HCN and their or a hidden room concealed by long-ago groups often include students heading into the
local preservation partners. changes. For non-professionals and students, field of historic preservation, but no expertise
credit: Judith Broeker volunteer vacations provide an exciting way is necessary to join an HCN team. Workshop
to participate in this process of discovery and participants receive training and work directly
Led by preservation preservation. These vacations are a meaningful with building conservation professionals.
contractor Bill Black, Jr. way for volunteer travellers to give something Tasks on site can vary, and volunteers can
of Paducah, Kentucky, choose a vacation based on the type of work
back, make a positive contribution, and in
volunteers worked to save
some cases, improve other people’s lives and that matches their interests and abilities.
the delicate detailing of the
livelihoods. Participants sometimes know each other
Queen Anne-style Kornthal
Parsonage. before the workshop, but often they arrive as
credit: Katie Dorn Heritage Conservation Network, a building strangers to leave as friends. This makes HCN
conservation non-profit group based in workshops a great team-building opportunity
The 1887 Francis Mill in Boulder, Colorado, enables volunteers to put for colleagues, co-workers and community
Waynesville, North Carolina, history in their own hands. HCN volunteers groups.
in July 2004 before the first helped bring the Francis Mill in Waynesville,
HCN workshop. North Carolina, from near collapse to working The primary goal of each HCN project is the
credit: Kelli Gantt restoration of a historic building, but volunteers
condition and saved the beautifully detailed
wooden porch at the Kornthal Parsonage in soon learn that their work is about more than
The Francis Mill with
Jonesboro, Illinois. Looking globally, HCN the building itself. HCN volunteers help save
restoration almost complete
after four years of hard work has worked in Europe and Africa and is now buildings that might otherwise be lost, restoring
by HCN and the Francis Mill planning its first projects in China. Information them to their original use or equipping them
Preservation Society. on HCN projects, past, present and future, is for a new purpose such as a community center.
credit: Tanna Timbes available at their website; They help jumpstart cultural heritage tourism
www.heritageconservation.net in economically depressed or undeveloped
HCN volunteers prepare areas. They restore people’s homes, their
a historic adobe wall for a A pioneer in the field of conservation lives, and their pride in their heritage. This is
new coating of lime plaster, especially true in regions affected by natural
volunteer vacations, HCN uses a “Habitat for
Mesilla, New Mexico.
Humanity-style” model to match volunteers disaster. In 2006, HCN brought five teams of
credit: Judith Broeker

past horizons 22
Heritage Conservation Network
International Hands-on Workshops for Architectural and Site Conservation

volunteers to work in historic neighborhoods with a catering school to train local residents.
in New Orleans and Bay St. Louis which Workshops are also being planned for Bijapur, LINKS
were among those hardest hit by Hurricane India, and Kaiping, China. To meet the needs
Heritage Conservation Network
Katrina. of these projects, and more importantly, these www.heritageconservation.net
communities, HCN has launched a major drive
Founded by two conservation specialists with for volunteers, for donations of materials and
a passion for educating the general public supplies, and for scholarship funds.
about the importance of historic preservation,
HCN has been putting history in the hands If you would like to be involved with HCN
of volunteers for the past six years. HCN or join any of its projects, let HCN know.
teams have completed projects at 23 sites
HCN volunteers and local
in five countries, and at present, another 15 They can be reached at +1303 444 0128 or
residents and participants at
workshops are in the planning stages. In 2007 via email at info@heritageconservation.net. the Ablekuma chief’s house in
alone, volunteers slung mud in New Paltz, Ghana.
New York, slapped on white wash in Virginia Photo courtesy of Sarah Hatcher
City, Montana, and documented wall paintings
in Serravalle, Italy. They also helped restore a
stone chief’s house in a village in Ghana.

Volunteers do not need to be in tip-top


physical shape as there’s a way for everyone
to participate at each project. Where physical
strength and stamina are essential, this is
noted clearly in the project description.
Volunteers range in age from 18 to 80 and
often report that the mix of participants is one
of the highlights of the experience.

The backlog of projects waiting for HCN’s


volunteers and technical experts continues
to grow. Planning is currently underway to
restore the Naa Laingoye House in Accra,
Ghana, to be used as a bed and breakfast

23 past horizons
by Rona Walker An I
Rona undertook 10
weeks of fieldwork in
Israel as a volunteer
before recently
completing her
degree.

Hazor at dawn

I have had a love of archaeology from an early age Up until that point I hadn’t even thought about how to
and chose to study a combination of Archaeology and fund it but that was obviously the next step. Volunteers are
Ancient History at the University of Edinburgh. During generally expected to pay for their travel, accommodation
my four year MA degree I took the archaeology fieldwork - everything really! Archaeology students are given a
choice. small payment from their universities to help towards
their excavation placements but as I chose to go to Israel,
Where you chose to excavate was up to you, and due to obviously this covered just a fraction of what I had to
my love of sun and the unpromising Scottish summer pay. I wrote to different organisations explaining my
I decided I wanted to excavate abroad. A poster for a hope to excavate, especially at the Canaanite site (you
Canaanite site in Israel caught my eye; it looked like can use the internet or a library to find out about local
it would be an amazing opportunity and experience. organisations or rotary clubs that offer financial help).
As a student, I had to make sure that the university People were extremely supportive and between my own
approved of the site but after that it was up to myself tosavings, the university and cheques I received, I funded
organise everything else. I emailed the supervisor of the my entire trip to Israel.
excavation, introduced myself and begged to be part of
his team. The excitement of visiting Israel and being able to
excavate with such big names in Israeli archaeology
Iron Age pottery from the excavation. quelled any worries I had about the trip and travelling
by myself.

My plan was to excavate for a full two months at Tel


Hazor, a major biblical-era site in North Israel in the
Galilee, but due to the outbreak of the war between
Israel and Lebanon I had to leave this site and finished
my excavation experience at Tel Yarmuth, a site further
south. Despite this, it was a truly rewarding experience
which opened my eyes to the in-depth workings of field
excavation.

The excavations were similar. Hazor features in the


narrative of the Bible (for example: Joshua 11:10)
concerning the Israeli conquests and the fall of the

past horizons 24
Israeli Adventure

late Bronze Age Canaan. Yadin Yagael, the first main attempted to understand its relationship and status in the
excavator of Hazor, was motivated by the desire to process of urbanisation in the Southern Levant.
confront this Biblical narrative, and concluded that the
history of the site was faithfully reflected by the account The excavating could at times be nerve-wracking: I
in the Bible. Amnon Ben-Tor, from the University constantly worried about hacking through something of
of Jerusalem, headed the renewed excavations from relevance! However, the professionals took a step back
1990, which were intended to ‘check’ Yadin’s strategic now and then to allow us amateurs to ‘go for it’, which
observations on which he based his conclusions. helped gain experience, build confidence and increase a
connection with the trench. This increased incentive and
Tel Yarmuth is also a Biblical-era site, which has been heightened excitement about the excavation as a whole.
identified as the ‘Yarmuth’ mentioned in Joshua 10 due As mentioned earlier, the Israeli and Lebanon war
to its location and settlement history. Nestled in the continued over the page
Judean foothills five kilometres south of the modern
A fellow volunteer carefully excavates a complete pot..
city of Beth Shemesh, it was initially excavated in the
1970s by Amnon Ben-Tor of the Hebrew University of
Jerusalem and of course, Hazor. Yarmuth covers 600
acres and consists of a fortified small acropolis and larger
lower city.

“it was a truly rewarding


experience which opened my
eyes to the in-depth workings
of field excavation”

Excavations were being carried out in the lower city


under the supervision of Pierre de Miroschedji of the
French Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique,
and were funded by the French Ministry of Foreign
Affairs. The excavations addressed why Yarmuth was
so prosperous, why it was eventually abandoned and

25 past horizons
broke out whilst we were excavating in the north of
the country. Due to rockets being fired a little to close
for comfort we were forced to move down the country
town by town until it was eventually decided that we
would take refuge in Jerusalem. I moved to Tel Yarmuth
soon after to excavate until I returned home. Despite this
trouble, Israel was a positive experience, and my time at
both sites can only be described as amazing. Excavations
are hard work, especially in hot countries, but the whole
process, from letter-writing, to the hard excavation, to
the weekend travels, was well worth it!

The author has a break on site

Reasons to volunteer…
Choice of excavations:
Anyone of any age can join an excavation loved local archaeology but all had been
as a volunteer and there are many to choose excavating at Hazor for a number of years.”
from. I began my search to find excavations
on the internet sites such as Social life:
“Excavations provide the chance to visit
www.pasthorizons.com new countries and meet people who are
www.britarch.ac.uk/archabroad enthusiastic about similar things as yourself.
www.archaeological.org We worked five or six days a week and this
www.archaeology.co.uk allowed me time to explore places and do the
‘touristy’ things, such as visit the Dead Sea.
“Other good places to look are in up-to- The social aspect was also great for hearing
date archaeological journals. If you are about different archaeological experiences,
at university, the archaeology department past and present, and hearing others’
usually has posters up advertising different archaeological anecdotes is definitely a good
excavations.” learning process.”
The excavation at Tel Hazor
The work:
“Work included practical excavation,
administration and post excavation work. We
did pottery washing and “pottery reading”,
activities that I believe are important for
student and archaeology-lover alike, allowing
time for everyone from different areas of the
excavation to be together.”

The variety of people:


“The staff consisted mainly of Israelis with
the odd Canadian, Russian and Spanish. The
supervisors ranged from those who were
qualified in archaeology to those who just
past horizons 26
Dig In..... get involved with archaeological projects around the world
Russian Federation: Giant Prehistoric Dolmen with Petroglyphs
The project aims to study, restore, protect, and eventually present a unique prehistoric
megalithic tomb “Dzhubga” to the public. 20 July – 20 September 2008
Website: www.dolmens.spb.ru

Transylvania: Dacian Fortress


Excavation of the fortified acropolis of the Piatra Detunata site will continue and expect to
expose a significant part of the fortification system. 1 June – 5 July 2008
Website: www.archaeotek.org/dacian_fortress

Belize: Maya Research Program


A unique adventure, new learning and personal challenges and an opportunity to play an
active role in furthering our understanding of the Maya culture. 26 May – 27 July 2008
Website: www.mayaresearchprogram.org

Macedonia: Heraclea Lyncestis Excavation Project


Founded in the 4th century B.C. by Philip of Macedon this was one of the key urban centres
on Via Egnatia road connecting Rome and Asia Minor. 16 – 30 July 2008
Website: www.bhfieldschool.org/bh2007.hlexc.html

Scotland: Scottish Episcopal Palaces Project - Fetternear


The summer palace of the medieval bishops of Aberdeen. The site forms part of a project
designed to study the development of bishops’ palaces. 30 June – 25 July 2008
Website: www.lamp.ac.uk/archanth/staff/dransart/fetternear.htm

Portugal: Evoramonte Axis Mundi


Castle and fortified town that may have once been the lost town of Dipo that existed during
the Romanization of the region of Lusitania. 30 June – 1 August 2008
Website: www.portanta.com

Kazakhstan: Geoarchaeological Study of the Talas Valley


The volunteer archaeology camp aims to continue a full geoarchaeological study of the valley
of the Talas river. 15 July – 30 August 2008
Website: www.lgakz.org

England: Combe Martin Silver Mine Research and Preservation Society


A community archaeology initiative carried out by volunteers who are taught the skills
necessary for quality excavation and is inclusive and accessible to all. 12 – 20 July 2008
Website: www.cmsmrps.org.uk

Italy: Valcamonica Archaeology and Rock Art Fieldwork


Active rock art centre that organises annual archaeology fieldwork at Paspardo, giving the
opportunity to research and study the rock art of Valcamonica. 14 July – 4 August 2008
Website: www.rupestre.net/field/index.html
This is only a small selection of scores of sites, many more can be found here:
Past Horizons: www.pasthorizons.com
Archaeological Institute of America: www.archaeological.org/webinfo.php?page=10015
27 past horizons
Recipes for Archaeologists

T here’s more art to cooking for field


projects than you might expect. Sure,
it’s a challenge to work in the kind of
as well as the fresh fruit, vegetables, meat
and/or fish needed for the first day or two.
About halfway through the season you
basic kitchens that make most good cooks need to start winding down on your food
cringe but there are other issues to be stock – and without doing any damage
considered. to the quality of the food produced. The
goal of any good field cook is to leave the
Annie Evans
With the usual blended workforces of site with very little of the provisions still
The Dig Cook
people from many parts of the world, unused. The last thing you want on the
fieldwork cooking also requires a degree closing day of a project is a fridge stuffed
of culinary tact. You have to deal with and with perishables and unused packages of
satisfy people whose taste runs from bland flour, herbs, or anything else.
to hot and spicy, as well Best of Both Worlds
as the carnivores and the
vegetarians. And let’s not I hope in future editions
forget the project director of this column to explore
with a sharp eye on the some of the other issues
budget. that I’ve experienced in
ten years of cooking for
archaeologists but for my
Finding the Right entrée piece here’s a dish
Ingredients that exists in two worlds:
that of the carnivores and
Above and beyond all the vegetarians. By keeping
of these issues there are questions of the meat component separate, both in the
supply. Finding the right ingredients in cooking and on the table, people can please
village shops, markets or supermarkets, themselves which version to eat.
where cultural differences mean that
ingredients you normally pick up really The recipe that follows is composed for
easily are simply not to be found, poses thirty to thirty-five people but quantities
a problem that sometimes requires a little can easily be bulked up for larger numbers.
imaginative ad-libbing. A determined It can be adapted to local produce anywhere
search for hokkien noodles for a popular in the world.
Asian dish in a Nicosia supermarket a few
years ago came up with no result. This This is a hearty, healthy and tasty dish that
store was totally noodle-less. The work- all of my dig families love.
around was to substitute thick spaghetti
and the resulting dish - chicken with Annie Evans
‘hokkien’ noodles - was a great success.

A less obvious issue for the field cook is Dig Cook’s website (click to view):
the fact that most projects run for around http://www.digcook.com/
six weeks. At the start, after a colossal
clean-up of the dodgy old kitchen which
is the usual run of things at most sites,
there’s a big shopping expedition. Here’s
where you stock up on all of the basics,

past horizons 28
MIDDLE EASTERN VEGETABLE STEW ON COUSCOUS WITH
CHICKPEAS AND (OPTIONAL) LOCAL SAUSAGE
Ingredients Method
2 kg (4lb) couscous grains (very fine wheat Drain and wash soaked chickpeas, cover with salted water. Bring to the boil
pasta) and simmer until tender. Drain and set aside.
1 1/2 kg (3lb) dried chickpeas, soaked
overnight Place couscous grains in a large bowl and pour over 1 1/2 litres (3 pints)
125ml (4ozs) peanut oil (ground nut oil) boiling water. Season with salt and pepper. Allow to stand for 30 minutes,
1kg (2lb) sliced onions then stir through with a fork to separate the grains. Add more boiling water
10 cloves garlic (crushed) if necessary and stand again. Couscous should be plump and separate, not
2 small hot red chillies or 4 mild long red sticky.
chillies
1kg chopped green capsicum (bell peppers) In a very large, deep, thick-based saucepan heat peanut oil. Add onions, garlic,
1/2 kg chopped red capsicum (bell peppers) chilli, peppers and carrots and fry gently until onions are soft. Stir in the diced
1kg carrots, sliced into rounds potatoes and pumpkin or sweet potato and pour over the water. Bring to the
1kg courgettes (zucchini) sliced into rounds boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
2kg (4lb) potatoes, cubed
1kg (2lb) pumpkin, cubed (optional), or Add sliced courgettes, okra or beans and cook another 15 minutes. Stir in re-
sweet potato served chickpeas, sultanas, cayenne pepper, cumin, paprika and season with
5 litres (8 pints) water salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer again. Put couscous in a muslin-lined
500g (1lb) sultanas colander, set on top of vegetable stew saucepan and allow to heat through.
2kg (4lb) broad beans, okra or green beans Add butter to the couscous and stir through. Taste and adjust seasonings. Test
4tspn cayenne pepper vegetables for tenderness.
8tspn ground cumin
4tspn paprika While the couscous is heating through and the stew is finishing off grill or
200gms (7ozs) butter oven bake the sliced sausage and have crisp and ready.
4kg (9lb) local sausages, such as chorizo,
loukaniko or similar, cut into rounds Serve vegetable stew on a bed of couscous, topped with sausage for the
carnivores, or just as it stands for the vegetarians.
29 past horizons
PROFILE
Professor David Kennedy lectures at the
University of Western Australia, Classics and
Ancient History Department. His current projects
are aerial archaeology in Jordan and the Jarash
Hinterland Survey.

Where do you go on holiday?


What was your first archaeological experience? Port Bouvard 80 km south of Perth (Australia)
A test-trench across a Roman road at Sandbach in
Cheshire, England in 1971 What has been your ultimate find?
Haven’t found it yet!
What is your current obsession?
Shifting my Aerial Archaeology in Jordan Project to How do you want to be remembered?
a higher “plane” – so to speak Frequently

Are you dirty hands or inky fingers? What keeps you awake at night?
Both Worrying about how many e-mails I will have in the
morning before I can get to the business of the day
What is your most satisfying archaeological moment?
The first flight I was able to take over Jordan for What is your most treasured possession?
archaeology after twenty years trying My copy of Poidebard’s La trace de Rome dans le
Désert de Syrie, 1934
Do you prefer teaching or doing?
Mainly doing Which person do you most admire?
Aung San Suu Kyi
Will you always be an archaeologist?
Probably! What is the worst job you have done?
Joint first: an excavation in Warrington in 1972 and
Have you had any life or death moments? cleaning toilets in Wolfson College Oxford in 1974
Plane struck a petrol-bowser landing at a small
Polish airport and we all had to be evacuated down How do you relax?
slides Reading, walking, cycling, music

If you could go back in time, where would you go? What is your favourite country and why?
Nowhere earlier that did not have decent Italy – stunningly beautiful in so many places
anaesthetics at the dentist. Probably last Tuesday just
before I went through that speed trap What makes you angry?
People who drop their rubbish in our landscape
What is your best travel tip?
Relax – there is nothing more you can do till you land If you weren’t an archaeologist, what would you be?
Lawyer
What is the last book that you read?
Cullen Murphy, Are We Rome?

past horizons 30
26. See 35 across.
29. Hoard-rich island (7).
31 . Roman fort, thought to
be supply depot for Hadrian’s
Wall (6).
32. Old Norse epic (4).
34. Chemical compound first
made in England during post-
medieval period (4).
36. See 35 across.
37. Statues on Rapa Nui (4).
38. One of the Warring States
of China (3).

Come back next issue for the


answers.
compiled by J. Welsh

HINT: Some of the answers


can be found on Past Horizons
www.pasthorizons.com

Scribble pad

ACROSS
39. Early medieval Slavic fortress town (5).
5. Wooden defensive boundary (8) . 40. Largest lake by volume (6).
8. Former summer palace of the Bishop of 41. A grove of Oiana and two of Caligula’s
Aberdeen (10). pleasure barges were found here (4).
10. (5) Mound, prehistoric British/Irish feature of 42. See 28 across.
debatable function.
13. Heraldic charge animal (4). Down
14. Or Myanmar (5).
15. Viking god (4). 1. (2) Fa, Gallo-Roman site.
16. Extinct giant armadillo (10). 2. Loch-dwelling (7).
18. Receptacle in the wall of a columbarium (5). 3. See 4 down.
21 . University which hosts the Centre for Manx 4. Relict landscape in France associated with salt-
Studies (9). making (10,2,2,6). Also 23 across and 3 down.
23. See 4 down. 6. British living history park (11) .
27. Town on Slovak-Hungarian border (4). 7. A people of southern Alaska (7).
28. Believed to be largest Iberian villa (5,2,5). 8. An area of the Western Sahara (4,4).
also 42 across. 9. Largest medieval Welsh city (8).
29. Form of landscape art found in Tarapaca (8). 11 . Square fort found in Kazakhstan (7).
30. Type of Roman ceramic (8). 12. Largest reconstruction project in North
32. Pithouses found in Fraser Valley, BC (6). America (8,2,10). Also 17 down.
33. (5) Glava, Serbian copper mining site, 17. See 12 down.
possibly oldest in Europe. 19. Direction used in site grid (4).
35. Research project looking at WWI 20. Source of decomposed organic matter which
archaeology in Jordan (5,4,6,7). Also 36, 26, and can be dried for fuel (3).
25 down. 22. Chilean desert, driest on Earth (7).
38. Area in China where traditional cave 24. Ziyaret (4), Assyrian city site. Craig Swanson (c)
dwellings are still occupied (5). 25. See 35 across. at www.perspicuity.com

31 past horizons
past horizons 32

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