Ep 1. Cornwall

Time Team Season 3 Episode 1: Cornwall

In this exciting episode of Time Team, the archaeological team embarks on a captivating journey to the picturesque county of Cornwall, located on the southwestern tip of England. Led by charismatic host Tony Robinson, the team sets out to unearth ancient secrets, unravel mysteries, and reveal the rich history buried beneath the rolling landscapes of Cornwall.

As the episode begins, Tony and his team of experts are joined by a crew of passionate locals, eager to discover the secrets of their own backyard. Their destination is a site that holds great promise—a field believed to have once been the location of a grand Roman villa. With Cornwall's long history of Roman occupation, there is much excitement and anticipation as they prepare to dig deep into the past.

Upon arrival at the site, the team waste no time in setting up their base camp and outlining their archaeological plan for the next three days. Tony, armed with his trademark enthusiasm, introduces the team members and explains the significance of their mission. With a combination of cutting-edge technology and good, old-fashioned digging, they hope to uncover evidence of Roman habitation and gain insight into the lives of those who lived here centuries ago.

With their trowels and picks in hand, the team commences their excavation. The expertise of Phil Harding, one of Britain's most respected archaeologists, becomes evident as he skillfully uncovers fragments of pottery. This pottery, dating back to the Roman period, provides the first clues that they may indeed be on the right track.

Throughout the episode, the team employs various archaeological techniques to uncover the site's history. From geophysical surveys to meticulous excavation, each method reveals a different aspect of the villa's existence. The geophysics team uses ground-penetrating radar and magnetometry to map the buried structures beneath the surface. Their findings offer tantalizing hints of what might lie beneath the layers of earth.

As the dig progresses, the team uncovers more fascinating artifacts, including Roman coins, animal bones, and even a well-preserved mosaic floor. These discoveries strengthen the team's belief that this site was once an impressive Roman villa, possibly belonging to a wealthy landowner.

An unexpected twist occurs when the team unearths evidence of a much earlier settlement beneath the Roman villa. This unexpected layer of prehistoric occupation adds another layer of complexity to the site's history. With the help of archaeologist Helen Geake, the team delves into the enigmatic world of the Bronze Age, uncovering ancient tools, fragments of pottery, and evidence of ancient rituals.

Throughout the episode, Time Team expert Mick Aston sheds light on the broader picture of Cornwall's past. He explains how the county's rich mining history, prehistoric monuments, and Roman occupation all contribute to the complex tapestry of Cornwall's heritage.

As the episode draws to a close, the team synthesizes their findings and reflects on the remarkable journey they have undertaken. The site has provided valuable insights into Cornwall's past, revealing a mosaic of historical layers that span centuries. The evidence suggests a history of continuity and change, with different cultures leaving their mark on the landscape over time.

With their work complete, the team bids farewell to Cornwall, leaving behind a newfound understanding of the county's fascinating history. As viewers, we are left eager to explore the hidden stories that lie beneath the surface of our own surroundings, and inspired by the dedication of the Time Team as they continue to unravel the mysteries of the past.