A unique grave from the Viking Age has been discovered in Norway (3 photos)

A well-preserved 9th-century grave has been discovered in Val-in-Bjugne, a coastal area of ​​Trøndelag. Experts believe it changes our understanding of early Scandinavian burial traditions.





Scientists from the Museum of Natural History and Archaeology at the Norwegian University of Technology (NTNU) have discovered a well-preserved skeleton, a rarity in Norway. Due to the acidic soil, human remains typically deteriorate there. Project leader Raymond Sauvage noted the significance of the find, calling it "extraordinary in many ways."

The grave likely belonged to a married woman who lived on a local farm during the Viking Age. She was buried fully clothed and with jewelry, a rare occurrence after thousands of years underground.

Among the finds were a finely crafted brooch and personal jewelry, indicating social status. The burial location suggests she may have been a farmer in life.

The researchers were particularly surprised by the two scallop shells near the woman's mouth. Sauvage emphasizes that such a practice was not found in pre-Christian Scandinavian burials. "We have never seen scallop shells used in this way—either in Norway or elsewhere in Scandinavia," he noted.



Experts are trying to determine the symbolic or ritual significance of the shells.

"Finding such a well-preserved skeleton in such an ancient grave is a great stroke of luck," noted antiquarian Hanna Geiran.

Due to the significance of the find, the Office of Cultural Heritage has provided additional funding.

The grave was discovered just a few months after another Viking burial was found in the same region. This discovery hints at the possible existence of a settlement or family line. Archaeologists hope that upcoming analysis will clarify the connection between the two finds.



In NTNU laboratories, scientists are studying the remains and artifacts. Head of the laboratory, Hanne Bryn, said the researchers will try to determine whether the woman suffered from any illnesses or physical ailments. This will help them understand more about her life and social status.

DNA analysis will be conducted later, potentially revealing family ties dating back more than a millennium.