Castilly Henge, a forgotten prehistoric monument near Bodmin and often referred to as “the sacred heart of ancient Cornwall,” is set to reveal its secrets after securing vital funding for excavation.
Located just off the A30 in Cornwall, Castilly Henge will be the focus of an ambitious archaeological dig funded by over £40,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The excavation, scheduled for September and October, will run for four weeks and aims to uncover the site’s mysterious past.
A Ritual Landmark from 3000 BC
Experts believe Castilly Henge dates back to the Late Neolithic period (c. 3000–2500 BC). The site likely served as a gathering place for ceremonial and ritual activities, resembling an open-air amphitheater. Remarkably, it was also repurposed centuries later as a military battery during the English Civil War.
A Collaborative Effort to Preserve History
The excavation is being led by the Cornwall Heritage Trust, in partnership with the Cornwall Archaeological Society and Historic England. Beyond exploration, the project will also focus on protecting the site from invasive plant growth and encroaching infrastructure.
According to the Trust, long-term management plans will be developed to safeguard the site’s ecological diversity and improve the condition of the ancient monument.
Community Involvement at Its Core
Cathy Woolcock, CEO of Cornwall Heritage Trust, emphasized the importance of community engagement:
“This is an incredibly exciting opportunity for local people to get directly involved. Castilly Henge has been at risk for some time, and we must act now to protect its secrets before they’re lost forever.”
Pete Herring, Chair of the Cornwall Archaeological Society, echoed this sentiment:
“We’re thrilled to be part of this project. Castilly may hold the key to understanding how this part of Cornwall became a focal point for ritual activity during the Neolithic and Bronze Ages.”
The site was first excavated by the Society in 1962. More recently, members have returned to clear overgrowth in preparation for the upcoming dig.
Cover Image Credit: Via Cornwall Heritage Trust
