The Harpole Treasure refers to a collection of relics discovered in Harpole near Northampton in 2022, including a unique gold necklace described as the most ornate of its kind ever found by archaeologists from The Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA). Dating back between 630 and 670 A.D., the necklace features various pendants such as beads, glass pendants, and Roman coins. At the center of the necklace is a rectangular pendant decorated with a cross motif, making it particularly unique. Other items found at the burial site included two decorated pots, a shallow copper dish, and a large ornate cross.
While pendants in female burials are not uncommon, the variety of pendants found in this particular burial site adds to its uniqueness. The discovery of the necklace, along with other grave goods, led MOLA to label it as one of the most spectacular female Early Medieval burials ever found in the UK. Archaeologists believe that the individual buried with these goods was of high status, possibly an early Christian leader. The goods found at the site are indicative of Christianity providing women with independence and power, as seen in elite women using the religion to increase their status.
In December 2023, MOLA released a second news release about the incredible find, sharing that the 30 pendants and beads making up the necklace had been cleaned and were still being examined by specialists to learn more about their origins. Furthermore, further investigation into the human remains at the site led to the discovery of more fragments, including the upper part of a femur, some vertebrae, part of a hand and wrist, and part of a pelvic bone. This ongoing research and examination of the remains and relics are shedding more light on the history and significance of the burial site in Harpole.
Archaeologists working on the project expressed their excitement and awe at the finds made at the site, with MOLA project manager Paul Thompson describing the discovery as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The unique nature of the necklace and the variety of other artifacts found at the burial site have made it a particularly significant find in the field of archaeology. Thompson highlighted the asymmetrical set-out of the gold coins and precious stones mounted in gold, which had not been seen before, adding to the allure and mystery of the discovery.
The identity of the woman buried at the site with the treasures remains unknown, but the artifacts found suggest she held a high status, possibly as an early Christian leader. With Christianity providing avenues for women to gain independence and power, the burial site is seen as a fine example of elite women using the religion to increase their status. The ongoing research and examination of the relics and human remains are expected to provide further insights into the history and significance of the burial site in Harpole and its connection to Early Medieval society in the UK.
