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Unearthed Treasures: Medieval Halls Discovered Under Oxford University
Recent archaeological excavations at Oxford University have unveiled the remnants of several significant medieval academic halls. These discoveries provide a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of students during the Middle Ages.
Excavations at Hertford College, one of the university’s constituent colleges, began in 2024 as part of the groundwork for a new library. This substantial project has revealed artifacts that date back centuries and offer insights into the educational landscape of medieval England.
Historic Discoveries
The archaeological finds were presented to the public during an open day at the college in September. The excavation team uncovered the back sections of three medieval halls: Hart Hall, Black Hall, and Catte Hall. Each of these structures predated the 1874 refounding of Hertford College, with Hart Hall being established as early as the 1280s. This timeline suggests that the artifacts found are from a period spanning from the Norman Conquest in 1066 to the 19th century.
A Variety of Artifacts
Among the treasures uncovered, archaeologists found ancient book clasps designed to secure manuscript tomes. Additionally, they dug up styli, which served as the medieval versions of pens and pencils, indicating the scholarly pursuits of the college’s early students.
Rubbish pits discovered during the excavation revealed a variety of food waste, including animal bones and oyster shells. Notably, researchers concluded that some fish remains were imported from London’s River Thames, located approximately 50 miles away.
Evidence of Trade and Daily Life
Excavators also unearthed remnants of medieval trade practices. Items such as coins and trade tokens were found alongside personal belongings like combs and clothing buckles. These artifacts paint a vivid picture of everyday life during medieval times.
The excavation further revealed clay pipes and drinking vessels, as well as unique wooden bowling balls used in early lawn games. These findings highlight the recreational activities enjoyed by students at the time.
The Crown Jewel of the Discoveries
Among the most remarkable discoveries was a well-preserved reading stone. Believed to be crafted from either rock crystal or glass, the reading stone was utilized by scholars to magnify text in medieval manuscripts. Ben Ford, senior project manager for Oxford Archaeology, described the reading stone as an exceptional find. Ford emphasized its significance, stating that it remains usable for its original purpose — magnifying text — which is rare among archaeological artifacts.
Ford remarked on the historical serendipity of the library construction project revealing evidence of ancient book-making activities. This connection to the university’s academic roots adds an enriching layer to the site’s historical narrative.
Continued Archaeological Significance
The United Kingdom is a country steeped in history, providing numerous valuable archaeological finds over the years. In 2025, significant discoveries included a prehistoric village unearthed at a future golf course in Scotland and an extensive Roman settlement located in the Cotswolds, just west of Oxford. These finds, along with the recent excavation at Oxford, underscore the ongoing historical significance of the region.
As researchers continue to sift through the findings at Hertford College, the excavation is likely to yield even more insights. These treasures not only enhance our understanding of medieval academic life but also serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy of education in shaping society.
A Glimpse into the Past
Excavations such as those at Oxford University contribute greatly to the body of knowledge about medieval England. Each artifact recovered offers a window into the past, revealing the customs, practices, and daily challenges faced by students and scholars of that era. The lives of those who walked the same grounds centuries ago become more relatable as we discover their possessions and learn about their experiences.
The discoveries at Hertford College illustrate how the intersection of modern infrastructure projects and historical preservation can lead to remarkable revelations. As construction continues, both archaeologists and historians eagerly anticipate further findings that may continue to enrich our understanding of this fascinating period in history.
Oxford University stands as a testament to the enduring power of education. These recent discoveries not only celebrate its academic heritage but also reinforce the importance of archaeological endeavors in uncovering hidden histories beneath our feet.
