Activities of the Field Archaeology Department in November
In November, a side project focusing on the ancient remains of Mont Orgueil provided an opportunity to go back into the excavation archives from the 1970s, thanks to the resources available at the Société Jersiaise and managed by our Librarian, Valérie Noël. Through a study of archaeological documents, notes, reports, and photographs, it became possible to revise certain interpretations and propose new ones. This work led to a Lunchtime Talk that highlighted the early occupations of this natural promontory, whose strategic potential was already recognised by the prehistoric and protohistoric populations. A recording and video capture of the talk were made, and it will soon be possible to revisit this presentation to discover—or rediscover—the ancient remains of Mont Orgueil soon.
On the 21st of November, the Consul General of France in London, Mr. Samer Melki, honoured us with his presence. A series of visits were organised by the Honorary Consul of France in Jersey, Mr. Pierre Chays, including a stop at La Hougue Bie. This visit offered the Field Archaeologist an opportunity to discuss the historical and archaeological ties between France and Jersey, as well as to highlight ongoing research programs in collaboration with France. Plans are underway to promote these initiatives, which contribute to the cultural influence of our island.
Meanwhile, a number of funding applications have been submitted in both France and Jersey to support the archaeological programming of the Department in 2025. December and the beginning of next year will be dedicated to the preparation of archaeological operation reports and research programs.
Hervé Duval-Gatignol
