Archaeologists discover 50 Viking Age graves in Denmark: Everything you need to know

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

Unusual preservation conditions

The preservation of skeletal remains from the Viking Age is not common in Scandinavia, primarily due to the region’s acidic soil, which does not retain bones well. Therefore, the excavation of 50 graves represents a significant shift in the understanding of Viking culture. Archaeologist Michael Borre Lundø of the Odense Museum noted the exceptional nature of this discovery, as it enables a range of scientific analyzes that could shed light on the health, diet and origins of those buried at the site.

An insight into Viking society

The cemetery provides an insight into the social hierarchy of the time, as many of the individuals buried there seem to have been of high status, as indicated by the accompanying grave goods. One notable burial depicts a woman buried in a Viking chariot, adorned with luxury items such as a beautiful necklace of glass beads, an iron key, a silver-handled knife, and a small glass shard that may have been used as an amulet.

Evidence of trade and wealth

The wealth of grave goods, including a finely crafted wooden chest and a decorative bronze buckle, suggests that the individuals buried at Åsum were likely connected to the extensive trade networks that flourished in the Viking Age. Objects such as rock crystal, which is not of Danish origin, further indicate the wealth and international connections of Viking society.

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