Who is Michael Wood?
Michael Wood is a renowned British historian and broadcaster known for his insightful documentaries and books on various aspects of history, from ancient civilizations to the Middle Ages. He gained widespread recognition for his series on the Vikings and for his deep dives into the lesser-known stories of British history. Wood has a particular interest in the social and cultural history of the past, and his approach often focuses on making history accessible and engaging to the general public.
His work has provided a fresh perspective on how we view Viking history and culture, and he has been instrumental in highlighting the significance of the Galloway Hoard in understanding Viking influence in Britain and beyond.
The Discovery of the Galloway Hoard
In 2014, metal detectorist Derek McLennan made one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 21st century when he uncovered the Galloway Hoard in a field near the village of Balmaghie in Galloway, Scotland. The find consisted of over 100 objects, including gold, silver, and copper alloy items, as well as textiles, religious artifacts, and even some Viking-age items.
The hoard dates back to the early 10th century, a time when Viking influence in Scotland and the British Isles was at its height. The discovery of this hoard was extraordinary not only because of the wealth it represented but also because it offered a unique insight into the cultural and religious syncretism of the time.
The Galloway Hoard provides evidence of Viking trade, raiding, and settlement patterns, offering a deeper understanding of how the Vikings interacted with the native Celtic populations of Scotland. The items in the hoard reflect the fusion of Norse and Celtic cultures, and its contents include a variety of items, such as a Christian cross, Islamic silverware, and gold jewelry, revealing the diverse trade networks and cultural exchanges that occurred in the Viking Age. shutdown123