Chepstow, known as the gateway to Wales, is a historic border town with a rich past. It is home to a 12th-century Norman castle that overlooks the River Wye, serving as a strategic stronghold throughout history. Archaeologists have made remarkable discoveries in Chepstow, uncovering evidence of prehistoric, Roman, and Anglo-Saxon fortifications. Recently, they unearthed an ancient bridge that once connected England and Wales, believed to have been built by the Romans 2,000 years ago. This wooden marvel was found preserved in mud during an “extreme low tide event,” providing a glimpse into the past.
The ancient crossing linked a route between Wales and England, spanning from half a mile upstream of Chepstow to the village of Tutshill in Gloucestershire. Dr. Orville Owen, an archaeologist, first discovered and partially excavated the bridge in 1911. The bridge appeared on an old Ordnance Survey map around the same time but had remained buried in mud ever since. Samples from the timbers have been collected for carbon dating to determine the bridge’s exact age.
Archaeologists faced perilous conditions during the excavation, with just a two-hour window to retrieve the ancient relic. Specialist rescue teams, including the Severn Area Rescue Association (SARA), provided vital assistance to ensure the safety of the team. The treacherous mud posed challenges, but with SARA’s support, the excavation was successful. The mud-streaked photos shared by SARA Beachley showcased the outcome of their collaborative effort.
Simon Maddison, from the Chepstow Archaeological Society (CAS), expressed his excitement about the discoveries and the upcoming dating results. The upright timbers found in a tidal pool at the location of the Roman crossing offer intriguing clues about the bridge’s period. The CAS team and SARA collaborated effectively, taking advantage of the lowest tides to carry out their work. These expeditions not only contributed to archaeology but also provided valuable training opportunities for SARA in handling boats and navigating challenging terrain.
Chepstow’s significance as a border town steeped in history is further underscored by these recent findings. Its impressive Norman castle, dating back to the 12th century, has long been a symbol of the town’s strategic importance. The newly discovered ancient bridge adds another layer to Chepstow’s historical narrative and offers a glimpse into the region’s Roman past. The ongoing research and analysis will undoubtedly shed more light on this remarkable find, revealing the bridge’s true age and its role in connecting England and Wales during the Roman era.
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