The turning of the year is always a point to pause and reflect. For me, this issue marks a mindful milestone, as it is my 100th since I became Editor. But there is also much to reflect on in the ever-evolving world of archaeology. CA 430 showcases the diversity of disciplines that make up our field, combining a report on a major excavation, thought-provoking scientific and ethical insights, a historic building with an intriguing story to tell, and opportunities to take part in underwater investigations.
Our cover feature takes us to Rendlesham in Suffolk where, just four miles from the famous burials at Sutton Hoo, excavations have uncovered fascinating evidence of a large and undeniably high-status settlement. What can this site add to our understanding of the evolution of the East Anglian kingdom and the exercise of early medieval political power?
We next head north to Edinburgh to explore how cutting-edge new scientific facilities are helping to bring the stories of long-forgotten individuals to light once more. National Museums Scotland is home to one of the nation’s largest collections of archaeological human remains; an ongoing project is working to learn more about these people of the past, and to improve how their remains are studied and cared for.
In our third feature, we take a tour of the Woolwich Rotunda, a building that was first constructed to celebrate the defeat of Napoleon, and later served as a military museum. With this unusual structure now facing an uncertain future, we trace its eventful history and consider what might come next.
Finally, we dive into the work of the Nautical Archaeology Society (NAS), highlighting three intertidal and inland projects that you can get involved with.
In this issue:
FEATURES
RENDLESHAM REDISCOVERED
Exploring landscapes of power in early medieval East Anglia
Excavations in rural Suffolk have revealed evidence of a high-status early medieval settlement just four miles from Sutton Hoo. What can Rendlesham tell us about the evolution and exercise of early medieval royal power?
PEOPLE OF THE PAST
Building a future for Scotland’s archaeological human remains
Home of one of the largest collections of archaeological human remains in Scotland, National Museums Scotland has created a cutting-edge new facility to care for and study these tangible traces of long-forgotten individuals.
FROM ROYAL HALL TO CANNONBALLS
Rediscovering the many lives of the Woolwich Rotunda
Woolwich Rotunda has a remarkable 200-year history but is currently supported by scaffolding and remains a steadfast entry on Historic England’s Heritage at Risk Register. We trace its eventful past and ask: can it be saved?
HISTORY IN THE SHALLOWS
Exploring intertidal and inland sites
Underwater archaeology does not only involve diving on deep-sea wrecks and submerged landscapes. Here, we examine how the Nautical Archaeology Society is also working to document archaeological remains in the intertidal zone and inland bodies of water, and highlight three projects that you can join.
LETTERS
Your comments, complaints, and compliments
NEWS
Iron Age hillfort excavated near Perth; Death among the Durotriges; Section of Hadrian’s Wall discovered at Drumburgh; Big year at Bremenium Fort; Prehistoric finds excavated at Derrygonnelly Castle; Science Notes; Hundreds of projectiles uncovered at Culloden; Finds Tray
COMMENT
Joe Flatman excavates the CA archive
CONTEXT
Conserving the ceiling of St Mary’s Church: Grandtully, Perthshire
REVIEWS
Community, Technology and Tradition: a social prehistory of the Great Orme Mine; Defined by Stones: 50 extraordinary rocky places that connect our prehistoric ancestors to northern landscapes; Landscapes of Kingship in Early Medieval Ireland, AD 400-1150; Living and Dying in a Lancashire Cotton Town; Cat Tales: a history; Floreat Salopia: a celebration of Shropshire’s history and archaeology
EXHIBITION
Bronze Age Boat Discoveries at Must Farm at Flag Fen Archaeology Park
EXPERIENCE
The Last Days of Pompeii: the immersive exhibition at Excel London
MUSEUM NEWS
The latest on acquisitions, exhibitions, and key decisions
LISTINGS
Our selection of exhibitions and events, as well as historical, archaeological, and cultural resources online
CONFERENCE
Find out more about our upcoming conference CA Live! 2026, including initial details of confirmed speakers and all the nominees for our annual awards
SHERDS
Chris Catling’s irreverent take on heritage issues
ODD SOCS
The C F A Voysey Society
