Boscastle is a picturesque village located on the north coast of Cornwall, England.
Lord Tennyson imagined this as the place where the dying Arthur was borne away on the funeral barge to the mystical island of Avalon.
Boscastle | 0 to the 9th century AD
Roman and Early Medieval Periods | 1st – 9th centuries
During the Roman period, from the first to the fifth centuries, Cornwall, including the area around Boscastle, was part of the region known as Dumnonia. While the Romans had a presence in Britain, Cornwall was not heavily Romanized compared to other parts of the island.
Following the Roman withdrawal from Britain in the early fifth century, Cornwall became part of the Celtic territory that resisted the Anglo-Saxon invasions. It retained a distinct Celtic identity during this period.
Early Inhabitants and Settlements
The region around Boscastle has evidence of ancient human habitation dating back to the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods. Archaeological finds, such as hut circles and field systems, indicate prehistoric activity in the area. With the spread of Christianity, there were likely early Christian communities in the region by the late Roman and early medieval periods. However, specific details about religious and social structures during this time are not well-documented.
Viking and Norse Influence | 8th – 9th centuries
The eighth and ninth centuries saw increased Viking raids and invasions along the coasts of Britain. While Boscastle itself does not have prominent historical records from this period, the broader region was affected by Viking actitivies, including raids and settlements. Coastal areas were particularly vulnerable to Viking raids, and communities may have developed defensive structures in response to the threat.
Museum of Witchcraft and Magic
Here is the Museum of Witchcraft and Magic, which is one of its unique attractions. The museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts related to witchcraft, folklore, and magical practices, making it a popular destination for those interested in the occult and historical traditions.