Meet the Ancestors

Julian Richards examines the grim destiny of a Neolithic woman and three children whose skeletal remains were uncovered in a Stone Age temple in Dorset. He reflects on the violent circumstances that led to their deaths, contemplating the brutal fate that befell this ancient family.

The programme titled is presented as an episode‑type broadcast. It falls under the broader category of a programme and is identified specifically as an episode, offering viewers a focused segment rather than a full series. In this installment, Julian Richards takes centre stage as he reflects on the grim destiny that befell a Neolithic woman together with three children. Their skeletal remains were uncovered within the walls of a Stone Age temple situated in Dorset, prompting Richards to examine the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Richards’ contemplation centres on the stark reality of the find: a mother and her three offspring, all dating back to the Neolithic period, whose bones were recovered from the same ancient sanctuary. The discovery of their remains inside a temple built during the Stone Age adds a layer of intrigue to the narrative he presents, urging a closer look at what may have led to their tragic end. The episode therefore concentrates on this particular archaeological revelation, highlighting the location in Dorset, the age of the individuals involved, and the setting of a prehistoric temple. Throughout, Richards guides the audience through his thoughts on the possible causes and significance of the women’s and children’s fates, anchoring the story firmly in the evidence uncovered at the site.