Archaeological excavations take place at Chapel Porth Chapel

A week of archaeological investigations has taken place at Chapel Porth Chapel, near St Agnes.

​Supported through The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Cornwall National Landscape’s ‘A Monumental Improvement’ project this week (13th – 17th May) has seen archaeological investigations take place, this will be followed by a week of conservation repairs (20th – 24th May).

The excavation at Chapel Porth Chapel has been overseen by The National Trust team with help from enthusiastic local volunteers utilising locally sourced materials. With Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) consent from Natural England as well as Scheduled Monument Consent (SMC) from Historic England being granted, the much-anticipated works can begin.

Chapel Porth Chapel is believed to date back to the medieval period and is linked to a holy well situated near the chapel’s earthwork remains. This historical site is part of the MI project and can be found in Section 05 (St Agnes) of Cornwall National Landscape. Section 5 runs along the coast from just west of Perranporth to Porthtowan, showcasing the rich history and natural beauty of the area.

A Monumental excavation at Chapel Porth

Speaking at the start of the week Monumental Improvement project manager Amy McElhinney:

“We hope the excavations will provide a rare insight into the monument’s mysterious past, whilst conservation repairs to the pathway running through the Chapel should ensure the remains are better protected for the future, thanks to National Lottery players”​

Later this year, the MI project will be installing new physical interpretation near the site as well as commissioning drone imagery, 360-degree video and a reconstruction illustration to become part of the digital interpretation for the site. This will allow future visitors to have a greater understanding of the monument’s significance.

A Monumental Improvement and The National Trust have worked collaboratively to enhance 10 National Trust heritage sites across Cornwall and will continue to until the ‘A Monumental Improvement’ project concludes in March 2025, thanks to money raised by National Lottery players.

By March 2025, The National Lottery Heritage Funded project, A Monumental Improvement, will have transformed the way 38 Scheduled Monuments in Cornwall National Landscape are recognised, cherished and embraced by diverse communities and visitors.