Archaeologists find 50 Viking graves in Denmark

An important archaeological discovery has been made in Denmark, revealing an extraordinary cemetery containing the remains of approximately 50 Viking Age individuals, dating back to the 900s. This remarkable discovery was made during preparatory work for laying electricity cables near the village of Åsum on the island of Funen. Archaeologists from Museum Odense have been excavating these graves over the past six months, providing a rare opportunity to study human remains from this era.

Unusual storage conditions

The preservation of Viking Age skeletal remains is unusual in Scandinavia, mainly due to the region’s acidic soil, which holds bones poorly. Therefore, the excavation of 50 graves represents a major breakthrough in understanding Viking culture. Archaeologist Michael Borre Lundø of Museum Odense noted the exceptional nature of this find, as it allows for a range of scientific analyzes that could shed light on the health, diet and origins of those buried at the site.

Insights into Viking society

The cemetery offers insight into the social hierarchy of the time, as many people buried there appear to be of high status, as evidenced by the grave goods that accompany them. One notable burial is a woman buried in a Viking chariot, decorated with luxurious objects such as a beautiful glass bead necklace, an iron key, a knife with a silver wire handle, and a small shard of glass that may have been used as an amulet. .

Evidence of trade and wealth

The wealth of the grave goods, including a finely carved wooden coffin and a decorative bronze buckle, suggests that the persons buried in Åsum were probably connected to extensive trade networks that flourished during the Viking Age. Items such as rock crystal, which is not native to Denmark, further indicate the wealth and international connections of Viking society.

This discovery not only increases our understanding of Viking burial customs, but also highlights the cultural significance of the region during the Viking Age, especially under the rule of King Gorm “the Old” and Queen Thyra.