Virtual Exhibitions
Archaeology Through the Lens
In archaeology, photography forms an important part of the excavation record. Often the site photographs that the public see represent how the archaeologist wants something to look for the record, making sure that the site and what was found are looking their best. Each photo tells its own story. Some fulfil a functional purpose, whereas others reveal the people involved in making each excavation a success. Some capture a unique moment or viewpoint, all thanks to the photographer’s ability to decide where to point the lens and when to release the shutter.
This virtual exhibit explores a series of images from key York Archaeological Trust excavations that began to uncover York’s Roman past. Through these images, we see the evolution, function, and beauty of archaeological photography.
View Archaeology Through the Lens
Digging for the Romans
York, or Eboracum, was an important fortress city in the northern reaches of the Roman Empire. The Romans brought new styles, foods, and inventions to Britain and, from its foundation in 1972, York Archaeological Trust (now York Archaeology) has been finding abundant evidence of their lives and deaths in the city.
This virtual exhibition highlights some of our most notable Roman excavations, from the stone sewers at Church Street to the headless gladiators of Driffield Terrace.
Beasts at Barley Hall
Why would a porcupine’s quill be found in medieval York? Which animal’s teeth were carved into a chess set? And what does a 15th century dog collar have to do with a window in York Minster?
Beasts at Barley Hall tells the stories of animals in medieval life, from domestic pets (and pests) and livestock to lions, bears and even dragons, using artefacts found in and around the city of York. This virtual exhibition is a companion to the physical exhibition opening at Barley Hall on the 1st of July 2024.