York and its Region in the Eighth and Ninth Centuries AD: An Archaeological Study

Abstract

The archaeological study of the early medieval economy, and especially the emporia, has traditionally focused on aspects of long‐distance exchange. The paper highlights the need for a more regional focus, by assessing the role and impact of the emporia on the surrounding areas, using York and its region as the basis for the study. Coinage, pottery, and stone artefacts are examined through their regional distributions, and implications for trade and exchange (long‐distance, regional and local) discussed. The concluding discussion suggests that York, whilst probably the main centre for long‐distance trade, may have been only one of a number of trading centres, and that during the later eighth and ninth centuries, regional exchange may have become increasingly important with the rise of potential markets at a number of inland sites.