Archaeologists unearth more than 50 Viking skeletons at huge burial site
Viking-Era Burial Ground Unearthed in Denmark #
Archaeologists have made a significant discovery in eastern Denmark, uncovering more than 50 exceptionally well-preserved skeletons in a large Viking-era burial ground. The site, which covers approximately 21,500 square feet, is believed to date back to the 9th and 10th centuries.
The excavation, which has been ongoing for the past six months, has revealed skeletons buried alongside artifacts from far beyond Denmark’s borders. This suggests that Vikings engaged in extensive travel for trade purposes.
The remarkable state of preservation of the remains is attributed to the site’s unique conditions. The ground contains a high concentration of chalk and natural water, which slowed down the decomposition process of the bones. In many cases, the bodies were submerged in water for extended periods, further aiding preservation.
The discovery was made during work to renovate the electrical grid in the area. The finding was unexpected, making it even more significant for researchers.
Among the most notable finds was the skeleton of a woman buried in a wagon, which served as a coffin. She was interred with various valuable items, including a glass bead necklace, an iron key, a knife with a silver-threaded handle, and a small shard of glass that may have been an amulet. A finely decorated wooden chest was also found at her feet.
Another grave contained a bronze three-lobed brooch, a red glass bead on a cord, an iron knife, and a small piece of rock crystal. The rock crystal is of particular interest as it does not occur naturally in Denmark and was likely imported from Norway, indicating international trade connections.
The discovery of this burial site confirms that the area was a key geographical point for early urban developments, which eventually led to the formation of Odense, Denmark’s third-largest city.
Most of the skeletons and artifacts have been moved to a museum for further examination. Scientists plan to extract DNA from the remains to learn more about the individuals buried at the site, including their ages, sex, potential diseases, and familial relationships.
This excavation provides a unique opportunity for researchers to gain deeper insights into Viking-age society, health, diet, and trade networks, potentially revealing new information about this important historical period.