Hi, I'm Gillian Hovell, known professionally as 'The Muddy Archaeologist'.
Welcome to this thrilling series of LIVE lectures on Stonehenge
If you're looking to find out more about the astonishing site of Stonehenge, its development, the wider Neolithic world of the time and how YOU can visit the Neolithic around Britain,
then you're in the right place! For I present
lively, passionate and engaging ancient history and archaeology that connects with our lives today and which bring the past vividly to life.
My life is spent lecturing nationally and internationally, and on tours and cruises of ancient sites from Orkney's Neolithic to the diverse cultures of the Ancient Mediterranean - some of you will know me from our travels in the UK and throughout the Mediterranean. I lecture on tours for Ciceroni the Smithsonian Journeys, Australians Studying Abroad (ASA) and many other UK and international companies.
And I love it. My joy is to transform your experience of destinations into ones that are not 'just a load of old stones'; I help you to connect with the civilization, discover and share our common humanity with it and enjoy and appreciate the diversity, individuality and richness of each and every culture. For I am passionate about revealing how archaeological sites and history are full of human life and passion. I love sharing the joy of ancient history in person, in books and articles, on the media and on line.
I'm a prize-winning author and one of my books, Visiting the Past: Finding and Understanding Britain's Archaeology, shares with you how to explore the archaeology of the British Isles from prehistory up to the medieval age and even beyond.
After graduating in Latin and Ancient History from Exeter University, I worked in BBC Television and went on to become an award-winning freelance writer, author.
I have led a community archaeology project in Yorkshire and
I have excavated at major sites in the UK and Europe - including Orkney's remarkable Neolithic Ness of Brodgar site.
I now lecture at York University and speak at the British Museum. I share courses around the country and lecture throughout the UK and abroad for audiences that range from local societies and luncheon clubs to Classical Associations, The Arts Society, and international groups. Every event is tailored to YOU, whoever and wherever you are.
I offer you expertise, passion and a warm welcome.
Archaeology is for everyone: let me lead you on a journey into the past with knowledge, great images, and a sense of fun and enjoyment.
Adding colour and depth to our lives today by digging deep into the past.