Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of multiple academic halls at Oxford University, offering valuable insights into life and trade during the Middle Ages. These discoveries, part of a new library construction project at Hertford College, reveal the historical significance of the site, which dates back to the 1280s. The excavation of Hart Hall, Black Hall, and Catte Hall has provided a glimpse into the academic and social life of students during this period.
The findings include ancient book clasps used to secure manuscript tomes, medieval pens and styli, and imported fish bones from London’s River Thames. These items highlight the presence of long-distance trade and the use of reading stones for magnifying the text of medieval manuscripts. The excavation also uncovered trade tokens, personal effects like combs and clothing buckles, and various pottery and drinking vessels.
Rubbish pits contained remnants of food waste, including animal bones and oyster shells, shedding light on the daily lives of medieval scholars. Additionally, the discovery of a perfectly preserved reading stone, made of either rock crystal or glass, stands out as a remarkable find by Oxford Archaeology’s Ben Ford. This artifact is not only intact but also functional, demonstrating the practical use of medieval tools for scholarly work.
The excavation, part of the construction for the new library, has revealed a fascinating historical tapestry spanning from the Norman Conquest in 1066 to the 19th century. These findings underscore the rich cultural and academic heritage of Oxford University and the broader United Kingdom, where other significant historical discoveries have also been made throughout 2025.