Oxoniensia

This article puts forward a new context and chronology for the development of the two parts of Late Saxon burh at Oxford, using archaeological, topographical, and historical evidence. The paper argues that the original burh was created in c.878-9 AD and that the eastern extension - effectively a second burh - was added in the early 10th century. Both dates are earlier than those usually proposed. The results of recent excavations on the site of the Norman castle have made it possible not only to establish the original extent of the primary burh, but also to identify a phase of the re-defence in probably the early 11th century AD as a response to renewed Viking raiding.

Study of Abingdon's layout suggests two episodes of medieval town planning, which occurred in a settlement of much older origins. Abingdon abbey claimed lordship of the town throughout the Middle Ages and must have been the agent of these developments, probably in the 12th century. The town can therefore be seen as one of a number of English towns in which a Benedictine monastic house promoted urban development in the settlement outside its gate.

Investigations examined parts of three Iron Age farming settlements near Aves Ditch. The remains included pits and ditches dating mostly to the middle Iron Age and extending into the late Iron Age; three young child burials were present. Wider aerial and geophysical surveys indicate that two of the settlements were enclosed, and are similar to a number of examples in the vicinity. An opportunity was also taken to examine a section through Aves Ditch.

Sites include: Evidence of Saxon settlement at Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, middle Iron Age to early Roman farming activity at University Parks, inter-cutting 11th to 13th century pits at Jesus College, medieval, post-medieval structures at Christ Church, possible medieval dry mortar floor at Osney Abbey, a large pit of 10th to 12th century pottery sealed by plough soil at Acland Hospital, and a stretch of medieval city wall to the rear of the bastion at No.2 Ship Street. SH