Earthworks of Northfield Bal
Classical Antiquity (800 BCE–500 CE)·Classical·🇬🇧 Somerset, South West England, United Kingdom
About
About Earthworks of Northfield Bal
Earthworks of Northfield Bal in Somerset, South West England, United Kingdom is a Classical Antiquity (800 BCE–500 CE) earthwork attributed to Classical culture. Systematically investigated through systematic survey and coring, it presents a principal enclosure with workshop zone. Construction employs cyclopean blocks and demonstrates long-distance exchange. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Classical earthwork with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Astronomical alignment and orientation
- 02Water management and resilience
Theories
- 01Astronomical observatory and calendar
- 02Ceremonial centre and pilgrimage focus
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 514 BCE
- Period
- Classical Antiquity (800 BCE–500 CE)
- Culture
- Classical
- Purpose
- Ceremonial and settlement
- Excavation
- Excavated
c. 514 BCE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 273 BCE
Secondary construction phase
c. 217 CE
Abandonment and gradual burial
1988
Archaeological identification via aerial survey
On the ground
Structures & features
52.4317° N · 2.6012° W · 2798 m · 3 mapped features
Reservoir/Cistern
chamberBurial zone — cists
52.4310° N · 2.6029° WGranary Cluster
chamberOutlier feature with standing stones
52.4312° N · 2.6024° WShrine
rampartPrimary earthwork at Earthworks of Northfield Bal — rock-cut facade
52.4339° N · 2.6010° W