Final dig at beach chapel site that uncovered human remains

A FINAL dig at the site of an early medieval chapel on a Pembrokeshire Coast National Park beach is expected to reveal more about people living in Wales 1,000 years ago.

Archaeologists have already carried out two excavations at the site of St Patrick’s Chapel in the dunes at Whitesands Bay, St Davids.

Almost 50 skeletons dating to the 7th and 11th centuries have been uncovered. Many were in “cist” graves – long graves lined with stone slabs. Child graves were also found decorated with layers of quartz pebbles and limpet shells.

Now Dyfed Archaeological Trust will be excavating again and will conduct free tours every day from May 9 to 27. National park rangers and voluntary wardens will help to prepare the site by removing turf and sand.

The daily dig tours are free and no booking is necessary. The chapel site lies 50m from the car park at Whitesands Bay. On the weekends of May 14-15 and 21-22 there will be longer tours to include a visit to the archaeological remains on nearby St David’s Head. To join contact Sarah Rees on 01558 825 999 or s.rees@dyfedarchaeology.org.uk