The sandstone house in Derbyshire is believed to date back to the 9th century and was once home to a king.
Experts from the Royal Agricultural University (RAU) and Wessex Archaeology have identified a 1,200-year-old cave house in Derbyshire as the residence of Eardwulf – the king of the Kingdom of Northumbria during the Middle Ages, which now lies in northern England and northeastern Scotland, reported Smithsonian on July 15. The research team published their findings in the journal Proceedings of the University of Bristol Speleological Society.
The sandstone house of King Eardwulf.
“Our discovery proves that this remarkable hewn stone house likely dates back to the 9th century rather than the 18th century as previously thought. Thus, it could be the oldest intact house in England with a doorway, floor, roof, windows… and moreover, it was once the residence of a king revered as a saint,” said Edmund Simons, the lead author of the study and an expert at RAU.
The house, carved from sandstone, showcases characteristics of Saxon architecture. To reconstruct the original structure, which includes three rooms and an east-facing chapel, the research team conducted precise measurements, drone surveys, and architectural detail assessments.
According to a 16th-century book and folklore, the cave house in Derbyshire is associated with Saint Hardulph – who is believed to be King Eardwulf. “At that time, it was not uncommon for deposed or retired royal figures to begin living religiously, gaining respect, and in some cases, even being canonized,” Simons noted.
Eardwulf ascended to the throne after the murders of two previous kings. He ruled Northumbria from 796 to 806 before being deposed. In his final years, Eardwulf lived in exile in the Kingdom of Mercia. He died in 830 and was buried at Breedon.
Scholars believe that Eardwulf’s son, who was also his successor, may have played a role in his removal from the throne. This power shift weakened the Kingdom of Northumbria, forcing Eardwulf to live in relative isolation.
During the 7th, 8th, and 9th centuries, England had at least seven major kingdoms and 200 kings, most of whom could not leave the throne at will. Up to 16% were murdered, 16% died in wars, and 33% were peacefully deposed. Only about one-third ended their reigns by natural death. “This new discovery contributes to illuminating a particularly fascinating and complex period in English history,” remarked David Petts, an expert at Durham University.
In the 18th century, local landowner Robert Burdett may have renovated Eardwulf’s old house. Burdett added windows and other details to invite guests. He also widened the entrance so that women in wide skirts could enter comfortably, while also facilitating the arrangement of additional tables and chairs.
