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The archaeological importance of Llangorse Lake: an environmental perspective
Author(s) -
Redknap Mark,
Lane Alan
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
aquatic conservation: marine and freshwater ecosystems
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.95
H-Index - 77
eISSN - 1099-0755
pISSN - 1052-7613
DOI - 10.1002/(sici)1099-0755(199907/08)9:4<377::aid-aqc355>3.0.co;2-w
Subject(s) - archaeology , irish , vegetation (pathology) , geography , tourism , dendrochronology , horizon , coastal erosion , erosion , geology , geomorphology , medicine , philosophy , linguistics , physics , pathology , astronomy
1. The Llangorse crannóg is an unique example of an Irish monument type constructed in Wales. The combination of artefact dating, dendrochronology and historical sources suggests it was constructed in the late 9th century by the king of Brycheiniog and destroyed in AD 916 by a Mercian army. 2. Wave erosion, seasonal water level fluctuations, root growth, and tourist activity all pose a serious threat to the site where anaerobic conditions have preserved timbers, artefacts (including unique cloth finds and bone), and environmental indicators which are currently unique in Wales and of international historical importance. 3. Only a small part of the site has been archaeologically investigated and management strategies to preserve the site without conflicting with other environmental interests are still under consideration. 4. The archaeological investigation of Llangorse crannóg has provided an opportunity to study the early medieval environment of the lake, including rates of erosion and colonization by vegetation of the island. 5. The vulnerability of the crannóg is discussed, and strategies for conservation reviewed. Copyright © 1999 National Museums and Galleries of Wales