King Arthur-linked site in Cornwall found to be five times older than previously believed

A recent survey has revealed that a historic location in Cornwall associated with King Arthur is up to five times older than initially estimated. Historic England stated that the results from the excavation at King Arthur’s Hall, situated on Bodmin Moor, represent the first confirmation that the site originates from prehistoric times. While the monument was formerly categorized as dating to the medieval period, a team of specialists from UK universities now believes its origins extend 4,000 years further back, placing it in the Neolithic period. Dr Tim Kinnaird, from the University of St Andrews, described the discoveries as a “major revelation.” He indicated that archaeologists would “now have to re-appraise our understanding of the prehistoric landscape of Bodmin Moor.” He added, “It’s extremely exciting that we’ve finally been able to date construction of this enigmatic monument, previously grounded in myths and legends.” Historic England noted that speculation regarding the site’s prehistoric origins existed due to its standing stones, but the recent survey provides the initial confirmation of this. The excavation, which commenced in 2022, involved researchers representing the Cornwall Archaeological Unit (CAU) alongside volunteers. Historic England reported that samples collected from the monument, such as pollen, insects, and parasite eggs, underwent radiocarbon dating. These results were integrated with additional dating methods, including Optically Stimulated Luminescence, to establish an age range of between 5,500 and 5,000 years ago. A geological assessment of the standing stones indicated they originated “from within 250m (820 feet) of the site and were possibly dug out from the interior rather than from a distant tor,” according to Historic England. James Gossip, from the CAU, explained that the site had undergone use and enhancements at different points throughout its history, extending into the medieval period. He stated, “Knowing when King Arthur’s Hall was built will help us understand this unique monument form better, how it might have originally been used and how it could have been used over time.” He added that the discoveries would contribute to answering inquiries, such as whether the stones were “placed there at the time of building or later in prehistory” and if the site served “as an animal pound or reservoir.” Dr Rob Batchelor, director of Quest, an archaeological unit affiliated with the University of Reading, commented: “The wild, remote landscape of Bodmin Moor has inspired centuries of legends, but this extraordinary new finding shows how science can help deliver stories that are just as intriguing.” He further noted, “Further analysis of these sediment cores may yet reveal more about what our Cornish ancestors were doing there and their impact on the local environment.” Historic England advised visitors to the site to exercise caution to avoid disturbing the monument, as it faces erosion risks. The location is included on the organization’s At Risk Register due to overgrown vegetation and the potential for erosion caused by visitors and livestock.