The Remarkable Discovery
In a fascinating turn of events, archaeologists have uncovered the remains of more than 240 individuals beneath an unexpected location – the former Ocky White department store in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales. This groundbreaking discovery included the skeletons of over 100 children, alongside the ruins of a medieval priory, marking it as one of Wales’ most significant archaeological findings in recent years.
The Historical Significance
St. Saviour’s Priory: A Story Lost in Time
The excavation revealed the long-lost St. Saviour’s Priory, established around 1256. Historical records paint an interesting picture of royal support, with King Henry III providing initial funding for church construction in 1246, followed by additional resources for expansion a decade later. The priory thrived for centuries until financial struggles led to its dissolution in 1538 during Henry VIII’s reformation.
Life and Death in Medieval Wales
The discovery provides a poignant window into medieval life. According to Andrew Shobbrook from Dyfed Archaeological Trust, approximately half of the discovered remains belonged to children under four years old, highlighting the harsh realities of medieval infant mortality. Some skeletons bore evidence of battle wounds, possibly connected to the 1405 siege of Haverfordwest by French and Welsh forces.
From Sacred Ground to Shopping Haven
The priory’s transformation over centuries tells an intriguing tale of urban development. Once a sprawling complex featuring dormitories, a hospital, and stables, the site eventually became unrecognizable, with only local place names hinting at its religious past. The graveyard remained active until the early 1700s before the land was repurposed, ultimately becoming the location of the Ocky White department store until its closure in 2013.
Preserving the Past
The archaeological team is now conducting detailed analysis of the remains to uncover more about these medieval individuals. Following their studies, the remains will be respectfully reburied nearby, ensuring this significant piece of Welsh heritage is properly preserved for future generations.
