The gallery tells the story of life in East Anglia after the Romans left and showcases the Castle's fine collection of Anglo-Saxon & Viking material. At the gallery's entrance, a recreation of an Anglo-Saxon grave contains the skeleton of a 7th century woman. From here the story begins with the migration period, when the Anglo-Saxons first arrived and looks at their beliefs, the clothes they wore, weapons and jewellery. Interactive displays including a rune trail and specially designed board games as well as a computer interactive, animation and living history video help visitors trace the development of early English society before, during and after the Viking invasions. The Harford Farm treasure, a unique collection of Anglo-Saxon jewellery forms the centrepiece of the gallery.
The hoard includes a stunning gold and silver brooch, inlaid with cloisonné garnets and filigree interlace decoration. Worn by wealthy Anglo-Saxon women 1300 years ago, very few of its type have ever been found outside Kent, where it was made. When the gallery opens in July 2004, there will be 1,000 objects on show - the majority found locally. In recognition of the significance of the new gallery and the Castle's superb collection, the British Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum and the National Museum of Denmark have also loaned treasures. The return of the Vikings>>> | 
View 
