Ancient Secrets Uncovered at The Old Bell Hotel
In a stunning archaeological find, a cemetery over a thousand years old has been discovered in the garden of The Old Bell Hotel located in Malmesbury, Wiltshire, England. This excavation has revealed the skeletal remains of 24 individuals, providing unique insights into the early monastic community linked to Malmesbury Abbey.
A Peek into Malmesbury’s Vibrant History
The Old Bell Hotel, a historic structure dating back to 1220, is situated next to Malmesbury Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery established around 676 CE. This dig, part of the Big Athelstan Dig marking the 1100th anniversary of King Æthelstan’s coronation, has uncovered not only skeletal remains but also grave goods that date from 670 to 940 CE.
Enhancing Our Understanding of Malmesbury Abbey’s Beginnings
Local historian Tony McAleavy highlights the importance of this discovery: “This finding fundamentally alters our comprehension of the origins of Malmesbury Abbey in the seventh and eighth centuries. We have uncovered evidence of the community that supported the monks here.”
The First Tangible Evidence of Early Monastic Existence
Paolo Guarino, Assistant Publications Manager and a resident of Malmesbury, points out that although historical records have referenced the foundation of the monastery, this excavation offers the first concrete proof of activities in Malmesbury during the 7th to 9th centuries.
A Community Initiative to Preserve Heritage
The excavation, carried out in 2023, was part of a community archaeology event. It has not only corroborated historical narratives but also provided physical evidence of a settlement that predates the abbey’s establishment.
Project manager Alex Thomson remarks, “These findings represent the first confirmed evidence of activity in Malmesbury from the 7th to 9th centuries CE, indicating that the burials may have been linked to the early development of the nearby Benedictine monastery.”
Guardians of Local Heritage
Kim and Whit Hanks, proprietors of The Old Bell Hotel, share their pride in serving as guardians of local history: “This thrilling discovery connects our past with the present, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of residents from the Middle Saxon period in Malmesbury.”
This extraordinary discovery illuminates Malmesbury’s rich historical narrative, providing a tangible link to one of Western Europe’s most notable centers of learning during the early medieval era.
