Archaeologists excavating a historic site in Moray (Scotland) have unearthed an Iron Age pot within a trench where Roman coins were previously discovered. The annual Birnie Dig got under way this week and the discovery was made within hours of work commencing. The ancient dwelling place, which lies in a field close to Birnie, came to national attention when two hoards of silver Roman coins were found in 2000 and 2001.
     Site director Fraser Hunter said the pot backed up the possibility that the coins could have been part of an ancient ritual. He said: "The biggest source of excitement so far has been the trench where the two hoards came from, with the discovery of an Iron Age pot. It really adds to the evidence that the burial of hoards wasn't just to keep them safe, there's a whole series of strange things happening in that area and we think it's most likely that these were some kind of religious offering.
     Mr Hunter said they were also working on a trench containing evidence of a 2,000-year-old roundhouse. A third area being excavated shows evidence of a further Iron Age house, with later developments on the top.
     The National Museums of Scotland are holding an open day at the site on Sunday, September 9, allowing residents a view of Moray life 2,000 years ago. Guided tours for adults will take place at 10am, noon, 2pm and 4pm, and children's and families will be shown around at 11am, 1pm, and 3pm. For more information call National Museums Scotland's access and outreach officer Jane Miller on 0131 247 4215.

Source: The Press and Journal (25 August 2007)