Background
Step back in time and explore the ancient world of Cornwall, visit the remains of an Iron Age village that was inhabited from the late Iron Age, around 100 BC, until the Roman period, which lasted until around the 3rd century AD. Chysauster is an important archaeological site near the town of Penzance that provides valuable insights into the daily life and social organisation of the people who lived in this region during this time.
Chysauster Ancient Village & Fogou | Video Credit: Before Caledonia
Layout
The village is laid out in the form of courtyard houses, a characteristic architectural style of the Iron Age in Britain. These houses are circular in shape and typically consist of a central courtyard surrounded by multiple rooms. The purpose of these structures is believed to have been both residential and agricultural.
Stone-walled Houses
The houses at Chysauster were constructed using dry-stone walls, which means the stones were stacked without the use of mortar. These circular houses often had thatched roofs.
Fogou
You’ll also find the remains of an intriguing underground passage known as a ‘fogou.’ Its purpose could have been for rituals, hiding, or as a cold storage area.
Purpose
It is believed that Chysauster served as a farming community, and the inhabitants likely engaged in activities such as farming, animal husbandry, and metalworking. The village was part of the wider Iron Age society in Cornwall, which was characterized by its tribal organization.
Archaeological Excavations
The site has been extensively excavated by archaeologists, leading to the discovery of various artefacts, including pottery, tools, and other objects that provide insights into the daily life and activities of its inhabitants.
Abandonment
Like many Iron Age settlements in Britain, Chysauster appears to have been abandoned during the Roman period, possibly due to changes in social and economic circumstances brought about by Roman influence in the region.
Visitor Attraction
Today, this Cornish Landmark is managed by English Heritage and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the well-preserved remains of the village, which offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived there over 2,000 years ago.
Other English Heritage Sites To Visit in Cornwall
- Pendennis Castle
- St Mawes Castle
- Tintagel Castle
