A Legend Transformed: King Arthur’s Hall Re-Dated to the Neolithic

Discovery Challenges Traditional Timeline

The legendary King Arthur's Hall, a prominent monument at Tintagel Castle in Cornwall, England, has been re-dated to the Neolithic period, challenging long-held beliefs about its origins.

Earliest Monument

Radiocarbon dating of charcoal fragments found beneath the hall's floor revealed that it was constructed around 3,500 BC, making it the earliest known monument at Tintagel.

Neolithic Ritual Center

Archaeologists believe the hall was used as a ritual center by Neolithic communities. Excavations uncovered evidence of feasting, including animal bones and pottery fragments.

Later Modifications

The hall underwent significant modifications over time, with later additions including a Bronze Age roundhouse and a medieval chapel. However, its Neolithic origins remained hidden until the recent re-dating.

Implications for Arthurian Legend

The new dating raises questions about the traditional timeline of Arthurian legend. It suggests that the legendary King Arthur may have been inspired by a figure from the Neolithic period, rather than the medieval era.

Rethinking Tintagel's History

The re-dating of King Arthur's Hall also forces a re-evaluation of the history of Tintagel Castle. It establishes the site as a significant Neolithic settlement and challenges the notion that it was primarily associated with the Arthurian legend.

Conclusion

The re-dating of King Arthur's Hall is a significant archaeological discovery that sheds new light on the origins of Tintagel Castle and the legendary King Arthur. It challenges traditional timelines and invites further exploration of the rich history of this iconic site.