Metal Detectorist Unearths Rare Viking Age Grave in Norway

A recent discovery in Trøndelag County, Norway, has unveiled a Viking Age grave that could reshape our understanding of burial practices from that era. Metal detectorist Roy Søreng stumbled upon two oval brooches, one of which prompted archaeologists to excavate a grave containing the remains of a woman adorned with jewelry from the 800s.

The excavation was initiated after Søreng contacted researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). The team, led by Raymond Sauvage, head engineer at the NTNU Museum’s Department of Archaeology and Cultural History, conducted the dig discreetly to protect the site and its archaeological significance.

Insights from the Excavation

The grave revealed a female skeleton, likely a free and possibly married woman, as inferred from her burial attire and artifacts. “This indicates that she was the mistress of the farm,” Sauvage stated, adding that the grave contained typical Viking Age items, including two oval brooches and a ring buckle.

A particularly intriguing aspect of the burial is the presence of two scallop shells partially covering the deceased’s mouth. In the Middle Ages, these shells were commonly associated with the cult of St. James and are exceptionally rare in pre-Christian graves. “This is a practice that is not previously known from pre-Christian graves in Norway,” Sauvage noted. The significance of these shells remains unclear, but they may have held symbolic meaning for those attending the burial.

Alongside the skeleton, the excavation also uncovered bird bones, likely wing bones, which further suggests a ritualistic aspect to the grave. The shells and bones were probably intended to convey a message to those witnessing the burial ceremony.

Future Research and Analysis

The excavation follows another significant find in the same location earlier this year, where a pristine skeleton was documented. According to Hanne Bryn, the field supervisor from the Department of Archaeology and Cultural History, the newly discovered individual appears to be one to three generations 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 proceed.

Next, researchers plan to analyze the skeleton, preserve the artifacts, and conduct dating and DNA tests. “The goal is to learn more about the person and about possible kinship to the previous find from the same place,” Sauvage stated. Investigations will also focus on determining body height, identifying gender-defining traits, and examining any potential traces of disease.

As the analysis unfolds, this remarkable find promises to contribute valuable insights into Viking Age customs and enrich the historical narrative surrounding this fascinating period. The collaboration between metal detectorists and archaeologists highlights the importance of community engagement in uncovering and preserving our shared heritage.