"Dumnonia's Fascinating Past - The Archaeology"

---

  1. Inscribed Stones

Example: The Doniert Stone, found in the late 19th century, is an inscribed memorial stone believed to commemorate King Doniert, a notable ruler of Dumnonia. It features carvings that include Latin inscriptions and intricate designs.

-Significance: Such stones provide evidence of the literacy and culture in Dumnonia, reflecting both Celtic artistry and the influence of Christianity.

2. Cornish Crosses

-Description: Numerous early medieval stone crosses can be found throughout Cornwall. Many are intricately carved and date back to the 5th to 7th centuries.

-Significance: These crosses often showcase Christian iconography, indicating the spread of Christianity in Dumnonia and serving as memorials or markers for essential sites.

3. Gold and Silver Hoards

-Example: The discovery of a hoard of gold and silver jewellery, such as the hoard from St. Cleer (which includes items such as brooches and rings).

-Significance: These artefacts point to the wealth and trade practices in the region, as well as the influence of both Celtic and Roman designs.

4. Roman and Late Roman Artifacts

-Description: Despite being a Celtic kingdom, Dumnonia was influenced by Roman occupation. Coins, pottery, and other goods derived from Roman trade and influence have been discovered.

-Significance: Roman artefacts indicate trade relations and cultural exchanges between Dumnonia and the Roman Empire.

5. Settlement Sites

Example: Excavations such as Tintagel Castle and Camelford have unearthed structures, pottery, and tools indicating settlement patterns and social organisation in early medieval Dumnonia.

-Significance: These sites reveal information about the living conditions and lifestyle of the people in Dumnonia and their interactions with neighbouring cultures.

6. Penchard and Ring Forts

Description: Earthworks, including hillforts and enclosed settlements, have been discovered, particularly around the moorlands of Cornwall and Devon.

-Significance: These sites were likely used for defence and indicated the political structure and warfare strategy of the Dumnonian tribes.

7. Ceramics and Pottery

Description: Various pottery forms, including locally made coarse ware and decorated dishes, have been found across Dumnonia.

-Significance: The styles and types of ceramics give insight into the domestic practices, trade, and artistic expression of Dumnonia's inhabitants.

8 . Coins and Currency

-Description: Coins discovered in Dumnonia, including those from both Celtic sources and later manufactured ones, show evidence of trade.

-Significance: These coins help trace economic transactions and connections with other regions, including trade routes and influences from neighbouring kingdoms.

Conclusion

Artefacts discovered about Dumnonia provide valuable evidence of the kingdom's history, culture, and the lives of its people. They illustrate the blend of Celtic tradition and incoming influences, such as those from the Romans and later Anglo-Saxons, contributing to our understanding of this historically significant region in early medieval Britain. The combination of archaeological finds helps illuminate the complexities of society, economy, and belief systems in Dumnonia.