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The text you’ve provided appears to be a partial article or report about archaeological finds related to the HS2 railway project in the UK. Here’s a summary and the key points based on the information:
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**Summary of the Archaeological Findings Along the HS2 Route**
– Since 2018, around 1,000 archaeologists have been involved in approximately 60 excavations along the planned HS2 route between London and Birmingham.
– Although the railway’s opening has been delayed until after 2033, most archaeological fieldwork is complete.
– Artifacts from these digs are stored in a secret warehouse in Yorkshire, containing around 7,300 boxes of historic items for further research.
– The future display or ownership of many items remains undecided.
– Historic England praised the archaeological team for uncovering sites spanning over 10,000 years of history.
– Despite archaeological successes, HS2 is controversial due to high costs, delays, environmental concerns, and community impact.
– Critics, including MP Greg Smith, have criticized the project for these reasons.
– HS2’s leadership acknowledges issues with costs and delays and commits to better project delivery.
– Archaeologists emphasize the importance of excavations, suggesting it would be tragic to build the railway without such work.
– Notable finds include Roman statue heads, a gold ‘three lions’ pendant from the 13th-14th century, a Paleolithic hand axe (over 40,000 years old, likely made by Neanderthals), and a Roman gladiator inscription tag.
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**Selected Highlights:**
– **Palaeolithic Hand Axe:**
Found in Edgcote, Northamptonshire. Over 40,000 years old, probably used for butchering. Experts highlighted its tactile qualities.
– **Roman Gladiator Tag:**
A small carved bone fragment with an inscription possibly reading: “DOMINE VICTOR VINCAS FELIX” (“Lord Victor, may you be victorious, Felix”).
– **Gold ‘Three Lions’ Pendant:**
From the 13th-14th century, a heraldic pendant in excellent condition.
– **Other Finds:**
Include a pottery head from a Roman vessel, a bubble-wrapped coffin from 1799, and Anglo-Saxon spinning whorls.
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**Context:**
– The artifacts and sites cover a broad historical range, revealing rich layers of British history.
– The debate over HS2 includes balancing modern infrastructure development versus preservation and environmental concerns.
– The archaeological work has preserved invaluable historical data that otherwise would have been lost.
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If you want more details or have a particular focus—such as specific objects, archaeological techniques, the impact on communities, or HS2’s progress—please let me know!
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
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