Medieval artifacts, including a hoard of bronze items dating back to the Bronze Age, have been declared treasure by the Welsh government this week. The collection of artifacts, which were discovered between 2020 and 2022, consists of axes, spearheads, rings, and a sword scabbard. The items were found in an empty field in Wales where drainage work had been carried out by Dr. Peter Anning and Alex Evans in February 2021.

The archaeological treasures were determined to be from the Late Bronze Age, dating between 1000 and 800 B.C., according to a news release from Wales' Amgueddfa Cymru museum. It is believed that these objects were intentionally buried by a local community as part of a ritual ceremony.

Charles Griffiths, a researcher at the affiliated museum of the University of Reading, expressed his excitement about the discovery, stating, "This collection of mostly small artifact fragments offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich tapestry of life in Late Bronze Age Cardiff." Griffiths further explained that the objects provide insights into the ancient connections between different communities, painting a vivid picture of the thriving local society around 3000 years ago.

Once evaluated by the Treasure Valuation Committee, the museum expressed interest in acquiring the hoard, referring to it as a "significant" find that contributes to the understanding of the region's culture during the Bronze Age. Adam Gwilt, the principal curator of prehistory at the museum, emphasized that the artifacts enrich the broader regional narrative.

In addition to the hoard, other treasures found in the area have also been declared significant. Dr. Anning made two additional discoveries that garnered attention. In April 2020, he found a fragment of a Roman silver ring while metal detecting. Then, in February 2022, Anning uncovered a medieval silver brooch pin from the 13th or 14th century in the same vicinity. Both items may be acquired by Wales' Cowbridge & District Museum.

Echoing his surprise at the multiple finds, Dr. Anning expressed his satisfaction that these treasures will be in the care of the respective museums. He hopes that both the public and museums will benefit from having these artifacts in their collections.

Further discoveries were made in November 2022 when Richard Murton, using a metal detector, unearthed a second silver ring fragment in a field in Powys, Wales. Dating from the first or second century, the ring originally held a semi-precious stone or glass setting. The Powysland Museum and Welshpool Library have expressed interest in acquiring this ring.

Prior to these recent findings, two hoards of coins were discovered by metal detectors in 2018, which were also confirmed to be buried Roman treasures. The Amgueddfa Cymru museum announced this earlier in the year.

These ongoing discoveries continue to shed light on the history and cultural richness of Wales, captivating both scholars and the public with their insights into life in ancient times. The acquisition of these treasures by esteemed museums ensures their preservation and the opportunity for future generations to appreciate and learn from them.