Metal Detectorist Unearths Viking Age Grave in Norway

Archaeologists in Norway have uncovered a remarkable Viking Age grave following a discovery made by metal detectorist Roy Søreng. The grave, located in Trøndelag County, contains the remains of an individual adorned with period-appropriate costume and jewelry. This significant find adds to a series of recent archaeological discoveries, raising interest in the region’s ancient past.

Søreng stumbled upon an oval brooch, prompting him to contact researchers from the NTNU Museum. In response, a team of archaeologists commenced excavations to preserve the site and its treasures. The grave is believed to date back to the 800s and likely belonged to a woman, as noted by Raymond Sauvage, head engineer at the museum’s Department of Archaeology and Cultural History.

“This grave contains what we believe to be a woman, buried with a typical Viking Age costume and jewelry set,” Sauvage stated. He explained that the findings indicate she was a free woman, potentially married, and possibly the mistress of a farm. The excavation revealed not only skeletal remains but also two oval brooches and a ring buckle, which were integral to her attire.

Among the more intriguing discoveries were two scallop shells, which partially covered the deceased’s mouth. While scallop shells later became associated with Christianity and the cult of St. James, their presence in a pre-Christian grave is exceedingly rare. “This practice is not previously known from pre-Christian graves in Norway. We don’t yet know what the symbolism means,” Sauvage remarked.

Additionally, the team identified bird bones, likely from a wing, located near the grave. These elements were possibly intended to convey symbolic meaning to witnesses of the burial ritual. The excavation, conducted in secrecy to protect the site, follows a previous discovery in the same area of a well-preserved skeleton earlier this year.

Field supervisor Hanne Bryn noted that the newly discovered individual is likely a generation or two younger than the previous find. “During the inspection, we quickly realized that we were facing a new skeletal grave that was in acute danger of being damaged during the next ploughing,” Bryn explained. Fortunately, landowner Arve Innstrand permitted the excavation to continue.

The next steps for the research team involve detailed analysis of the skeleton and artifacts. “We will examine the skeleton, preserve the objects, and take samples for dating and DNA analysis. Our goal is to learn more about this individual and explore potential kinship with the previous discovery,” Sauvage stated.

The investigation will include assessments of body height, gender-specific traits, and any signs of disease. As archaeologists delve deeper into this fascinating find, they hope to shed light on the life and circumstances of those living during the Viking Age, enriching the historical narrative of Norway’s past.