Libraries and leisure

What is Archaeology?

Archaeology is the study of the physical evidence of past human activity. For almost all of human history archaeological remains are our only source of evidence about the past. It includes the remains of features such as castles, historic buildings, burial mounds, Roman villas, industrial monuments, field systems and relics of the Second World War.

Many archaeological remains, including most of Hertfordshire's, only survive below the ground. They can sometimes be seen from the air - occasionally the ground plan of entire settlements along with their roadways and field systems can be seen. Archaeological sites often contain material such as wood, leather, seeds, insects and other animal remains, and even microscopic evidence such as pollen. These all help to build up a picture of the climate, wildlife and vegetation of the past.

Archaeology is crucial to our understanding of the development of the modern landscape and the long-term affects of human actions on it. Archaeological remains can also help us to study different aspects of ancient communities such as their health and diet, religious and ritual practices, and the origins and development of our present social and political structures.

Archaeological remains are visible and can often be touched, handled and even smelt. This means that they have enormous potential as a way of informing people about the history of their local area and the past in general; they provide us with a physical and tangible link with the past. They provide a sense of place and context for many people, particularly those in rural communities.