Must Farm - Britain’s ‘Pompeii’
In the heart of Cambridgeshire lies a remarkable archaeological site that has been dubbed Britain's Pompeii—a prehistoric settlement frozen in time by a catastrophic fire over 3,000 years ago. Nestled within the Must Farm quarry in Whittlesey, this Bronze Age homestead, occupied for less than a year, offers a tantalizing glimpse into ancient life, preserved in astonishing detail.
Image Credit: Cambridge Archaeological Unit
Must Farm was discovered between 2015 and 2016 by the Cambridge Archaeological Unit (CAU). What once thrived as a bustling village, possibly home to 50 to 60 individuals, now stands as a poignant reminder of a bygone era. The settlement, composed of approximately 10 circular wooden houses perched on stilts above a river, was tragically engulfed in flames around 850 BC.
Photo Credit: Cambridge Archaeological Unit
Archaeologist Chris Wakefield describes the site as "an amazing time capsule," and indeed, it is. Much like its Roman counterpart, Pompeii, Must Farm offers a unique window into Bronze Age life, frozen in the wake of destruction. The dense vegetation along the river, coupled with the swift burial in silt, served as a natural preservative, safeguarding the village and its treasures for millennia.
The cause of the blaze remains shrouded in mystery—whether an attack or a tragic accident, the inferno swiftly consumed the tightly packed homes. Yet, amidst the charred ruins, a wealth of artifacts emerged, offering invaluable insights into daily life. From wooden implements to fiber and textile items, pottery vessels, and metalwork, each discovery paints a vivid picture of the community's ingenuity and craftsmanship.
As excavation efforts continue, the story of Must Farm unfolds with each carefully unearthed artifact. The upcoming exhibition at Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery promises to showcase some of these remarkable finds, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of our Bronze Age ancestors.
Photo Credit: Cambridge Archaeological Unit
Chris Wakefield's reflections on Must Farm echo the sentiment of discovery and wonder that permeates the archaeological community. Contrary to misconceptions of primitive hardship, the inhabitants of Must Farm demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of technology and innovation. Axes crafted as versatile multi-tools, ingeniously designed pottery, and other artifacts speak to a culture thriving amidst the challenges of their time.
The Must Farm project stands as one of the most comprehensive investigations into prehistoric life in the UK. Through meticulous analysis and publication, researchers aim to unravel the complexities of Bronze Age society, shedding light on a pivotal period in human history.
As we marvel at the remnants of Must Farm, we are reminded of the enduring human spirit and the power of archaeological exploration to illuminate the past. In this ancient village, frozen in time, we find not only artifacts but also stories—testaments to resilience, creativity, and the timeless quest for knowledge.