Join the Living Levels, Dr Mark Lewis and Prof Marin Bell to help carry out a geophysical survey of the old Goldcliff Priory site.
In 1113, the Norman Lord of Caerleon, Robert de Chandos, granted land at Goldcliff to the Abbey of Bec, near Rouen in France, for the founding of the Benedictine Priory of St Mary Magdalene. The priory was built on Goldcliff ‘island’, an area of high ground at the coast, and initially included around 200 acres of ‘moorland’ between Goldcliff and Nash.
There are few traces of the priory today, but the lasting legacy lies in the landscape of the Levels around Goldcliff and Nash, which still follows the intricate pattern of field and ditches laid down by the monks over 600 years ago.
Artist’s reconstruction of how the Priory may have looked circa 1250 (Dextra Visual)
Join us to help carry out a geophysical survey, using equipment from Caerleon Roman Legion Museum, which aims to understand more about the layout of the site and how the Priory would have looked.
During the session everyone will get a chance to get involved with the survey and use the equipment if they wish.
Please note that no ferromagnetic items can be worn when using certain equipment – please get in touch if you have any questions regarding this.
There will also be a walk, led by Martin, along the sea wall to talk about some of the archaeological discoveries found at the site, including the opportunity to view some of these artefacts.
We want to ensure there is opportunity for everyone to get involved so we will be hosting four sessions over the two days - please only book onto one session.
Info for the day:
Due to limited parking, we encourage car sharing wherever possible.
There are no toilets at the site, but the Seawall Tearooms should be open throughout the event for refreshments.
There are no stiles however the terrain is grassy, bumpy and possibly boggy. There is also a short but steep incline to see beyond the seawall.
Please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes for the terrain.
Visit the Living Levels website for more information about Goldcliff Priory.