Metal Detectorist Uncovers Viking Age Grave in Norway

A significant archaeological discovery has emerged in Trøndelag County, Norway, where a metal detectorist uncovered a Viking Age grave. This remarkable find, made by Roy Søreng, includes the remains of a woman adorned with costume and jewelry dating back to the 800s. The discovery has drawn the attention of archaeologists, who have commenced excavation to protect the site and its historical treasures.

Following Søreng’s initial discovery of an oval brooch, the team from the NTNU Museum began their excavation efforts in secrecy. Raymond Sauvage, head engineer at the museum’s Department of Archaeology and Cultural History, confirmed the burial’s significance. “This grave contains what we believe to be a woman, buried with a typical Viking Age costume and jewelry set,” he stated, highlighting that the individual was likely a free and perhaps married woman, possibly the mistress of a farm.

The grave revealed skeletal remains alongside two oval brooches, one of which was the brooch discovered by Søreng. Additionally, a ring buckle used for fastening a petticoat was found. Notably, two scallop shells partially covered the deceased’s mouth. While these shells are commonly associated with the Christian cult of St. James during the Middle Ages, they are exceedingly rare in pre-Christian graves, prompting questions about their symbolic meaning.

“This practice has not been documented in pre-Christian graves in Norway. We do not yet understand its significance,” Sauvage explained. The excavation team also discovered bird bones, likely from the wings of a bird, which may have held symbolic importance during the burial ceremony. According to reports from Norwegian SciTech News, the shells and bones were likely intended to convey a message to those witnessing the burial.

This excavation follows another significant find in the same area earlier this year, where a pristine skeleton was discovered. Hanne Bryn, field supervisor at the NTNU Museum, indicated that the newly found individual is likely one to three generations younger than the previous discovery. “During our inspection, it became clear that we were dealing with a new grave that was at risk of being damaged with upcoming ploughing,” she explained. The landowner, Arve Innstrand, permitted the excavation to proceed, allowing researchers to gather valuable information.

The next phase involves detailed analysis of the skeleton, preservation of the artifacts, and sampling for both dating and DNA analysis. “Our goal is to learn more about the individual and explore potential kinship with the previous find,” Sauvage noted. Researchers plan to investigate various aspects, including body height, gender-specific traits, and any signs of disease.

The ongoing efforts at this site underscore the importance of archaeological research in uncovering the past and understanding the lives of those who lived during the Viking Age. As more findings come to light, they may reshape our understanding of this fascinating period in history.