Birgitta Hoffmann
A study day exploring how climate change and archaeology interact at the end of the Bronze Age in the Mediterranean
The end of the New Kingdom Egypt is invaded by the “Sea People”, a group large enough that together with low Nile levels and ensuing famine is able to bring Egypt to its knees and begin what is known as the Third Intermediate Period. This invasion is, however, not unique, and we are able to point to other areas around the Mediterranean and beyond where the established political order comes under massive stress at the time.
At the same time, geologists and palaeobotanists see increasing evidence for a sustained shift in the climate of the region, which would have necessitated considerable adaptation by the local population to continue farming.
This dayschool will look at how the climate evidence meshes (or not) with the historical records and how this can help us to understand the period better.
Please note that all lectures will be recorded and distributed to the participants at the beginning of the next week. This should allow participants from different time zones, or those working to catch up with the lectures.
Dayschool: Saturday, 16th May 2026 Time: 11.00– 16.00 GMT
ZOOM LECTURE
| Price | Concessions | Minimum No. | Maximum No. | |
| £35 | 8 | 50 |
To book, please use the attached order form or use this Eventbrite link:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/catastrophe-iv-the-end-of-the-bronze-age-the-32k-event-the-sea-people-tickets-1986347777674?aff=oddtdtcreator