AS Advent Calendar 2024

Archaeology Scotland Advent Calendar

2024

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Archaeology Scotland Advent Calendar

2024

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A look at the field of glacial archaeology, where ancient artefacts are uncovered as Norway's glaciers and ice patches retreat due to climate change. Among these discoveries is a forgotten Viking pass, now revealed to be a treasure trove of items preserved in ice for millennia. These findings offer a unique glimpse into the lives of past civilisations and the challenges of preserving their heritage amid environmental changes.

Step back in time with authentic Medieval and Viking festive recipes, blending ancient flavours and traditions to enrich your festive table!

Taste the Past

• Viking bread

• Medieval gingerbread

• Viking Skause stew

• Medieval vegetable pottage

• Medieval wine-poached pears

'Redding the House' and time for the first footing?! Read up on some of the classic Hogmanay traditions to try this year!

Hogmanay traditions!

Read on >

Dive into the magic of Scottish winter folktales, from enchanting tales of mythical creatures and snowy landscapes. Perfect for cosy (and sometimes creepy!) evenings by the fire, these stories capture Scotland's rich heritage:

Scottish winter folktales

• Angus & Beira - the battle of the seasons

• Podcasts: Winter tales from Shetland

• Stories of the Selkies

• The Witch of Beinn a Ghlo

• Scotland's Winter Witches

Enjoy this image of Aboyne Castle during a storm by Martin Bennie (UnSplash)

From its ancient roots in midwinter festivals to being banned during the Reformation and eventually becoming a public holiday in 1958, this timeline reveals how Christmas traditions in Scotland evolved. Discover how the Scots celebrated Yule, adapted to restrictions, and embraced modern festivities - article by Wendy Malkin for Historic Environment Scotland.

Christmas in Scotland through the ages

Read on >

A number of standing stones and megalithic sites are aligned with the Winter Solstice, reflecting ancient efforts to track celestial movements. Enjoy this video from the Prehistory Guys, which explores Britain's stone circles, with chapters 6 and 7 focusing on Scotland and the Isles.

Relive the awe-inspiring discovery of the Newbridge Chariot Burial - Scotland’s first Iron Age chariot burial - uncovered unexpectedly during a winter excavation. This unique find sheds light on ancient funerary practices and the lives of Iron Age warriors.

An unexpected winter discovery...

Read on >

Happy Winter Solstice! Celebrate by wathcing this fasinating video about Maeshowe Chambered Cairn in Orkney by Historic Environment Scotland.

A powerful winter storm revealed a previously hidden shipwreck off the coast of North Berwick, offering archaeologists a rare glimpse into Scotland's maritime past. The discovery highlights how seasonal weather can uncover significant historical artefacts.

Winter storms revealing secrets...

Read on >