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The Value of Archaeological Heritage

For almost all of the period of human history archaeological remains are our only source of evidence about the past. They are also crucial to our understanding of the development of the modern landscape.

This includes the development of the settlements in which we live (the towns, villages, farms). Many of these have complex histories of physical movement, growth and decline spread over hundreds or thousands of years. The origins - and economic basis - of many of our ancient woodlands, hedgerows and field systems can also be understood from archaeological remains. Archaeology can offer the means to understand the long-term affects of human actions by offering explanations for past and present changes.

For example, archaeological evidence has been important in understanding the human role in the spread of modern deserts or ‘desertification’ in North Africa.

Archaeological evidence for the rise and collapse of past societies can provide important insights into the process of change in both modern and ancient societies. Archaeological remains can allow us to study many different aspects of ancient communities including their health and diet, religious and ritual practices, and also the origins and development of our present social and political structures.

Hertfordshire is particularly rich in archaeological remains. The combination of good soils, favourable climate and adequate supplies of water, made it a favoured area for settlement from the end of the last Ice Age, approximately 12000 years ago.