Hampshire-based Butser Ancient Farm in Chalton invites visitors to honor the ancient Roman festival of Agonalia this weekend. The event, taking place on May 18th and 19th, will feature a battle for Britannia between the Anglo Saxon reenactment group Herigeas Hundas and the Roman and Iron Age tribes represented by The Vicus.
According to Herigeas Hundas Media Officer Jen Atkinson, the group is thrilled to return to Butser Ancient Farm and bring history to life for visitors. The battle promises to be an exciting and immersive experience, as visitors have the opportunity to witness fierce warriors in action and learn about Roman ceremonies and Gladiatorial Games in honor of the Roman God Veiovius.
In addition to combat displays, visitors can also enjoy archery demonstrations and explore the museum’s two replica Anglo Saxon halls, Roman Villa, and Iron Age roundhouses. These structures will be bustling with daily crafts such as weaving, spinning, cooking, and herbal healing, providing a glimpse into daily life during these ancient times.
Butser Ancient Farm’s Creative Developer Rachel Bingham expressed her excitement for the event, stating that the re-enactors from Herigeas Hundas and The Vicus bring the ancient buildings of Butser to life. She encourages visitors to expect amazing combat displays, craft demonstrations, and fascinating talks throughout the weekend.
The two Anglo Saxon halls at Butser Ancient Farm are based on the foundations of two houses uncovered during excavations in the nearby village of Chalton. The excavation, led by Peter Addyman, also known for his work at the famous Viking site, Jorvik, in York, took place in the 1970s.
Butser Ancient Farm is a unique experimental archaeology site situated in the beautiful South Downs National Park. It showcases reconstructions of Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, Roman Britain, and the Anglo-Saxon period, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience these ancient cultures firsthand.
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