Sweet Track
Template:Infobox archaeological site
The Sweet Track is an ancient trackway located in the Somerset Levels of England. It is one of the oldest known engineered roads in the world, dating back to the early Neolithic period, around 3807 BC. The track was named after Ray Sweet, the peat digger who discovered it in 1970.
History and Construction[edit | edit source]
The Sweet Track was constructed during the early Neolithic period, a time when communities in Britain were transitioning from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to one of agriculture and settlement. The trackway was built to provide a dry path across the marshy ground of the Somerset Levels, connecting the settlements at Westhay and Shapwick.
The construction of the Sweet Track involved laying down a series of wooden planks, primarily made from oak, ash, and lime trees. These planks were supported by a framework of crossed wooden poles, which were driven into the soft peat to provide stability. The track was approximately 2000 meters long and 1.2 meters wide, allowing for the passage of people and possibly livestock.
Archaeological Significance[edit | edit source]
The discovery of the Sweet Track provided significant insights into the engineering capabilities and social organization of early Neolithic communities. The precise construction techniques and the choice of durable materials suggest a high level of planning and cooperation among the builders.
Dendrochronological analysis of the wood used in the trackway has allowed archaeologists to date its construction very precisely to the winter of 3807/3806 BC. This makes the Sweet Track one of the earliest precisely dated structures in the world.
Preservation and Conservation[edit | edit source]
The waterlogged conditions of the Somerset Levels have helped preserve the wooden structure of the Sweet Track for thousands of years. However, changes in water levels and peat extraction pose ongoing threats to its preservation. Efforts have been made to monitor and manage the site to prevent further deterioration.
Also see[edit | edit source]
Template:Archaeological sites in Somerset Template:Neolithic sites in England
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