Anglo-Saxon Kingdoms

Settling in Great Britain from the 5th century, the Anglo-Saxons were people from Germanic tribes who migrated to the island from continental Europe. Historically, the period between about 450 and 1066 is referred to as the Anglo-Saxon period, after their initial settlement and up until the Norman conquest. It was a period of the creation of an English nation, establishment of Christianity, and flowering of language and culture. An establishment of monasteries as centres of learning is reflected in the beautifully illuminated Lindisfarne Gospels, Codex Amiatinus, and Bede's Ecclesiastical History.

The material culture of the Anglo-Saxons can be seen through their buildings, dress styles, tapestries, and grave goods. The Anglo-Saxons were great craft workers and made intricate jewellery, musical instruments, and homemade toys and games. The stunning finds from Sutton Hoo and the Staffordshire Hoard are a reflection of the Anglo-Saxons’ beliefs and traditions before their conversion to Christianity.