The recently excavated 1,800-year-old skeleton in Wales (UK) has puzzled archaeologists due to its lying position and accompanying burial items.
The grave was discovered in a field near an ancient Roman villa, with details suggesting it is the resting place of an elite individual from the 3rd or 4th century AD.
Decorated with a silver brooch and a sword, the man may have been a Roman soldier, revered in society. However, unlike three other graves from the same period found nearby, this individual was buried face down.
Mysterious grave in Wales – (Photo: RED RIVER ARCHAEOLOGY).
The large nails found near his neck, back, and feet are tantalizing evidence that he may have been tied up until death, according to Live Science.
Analysis of the bones and teeth of this ancient warrior also revealed a severe ear infection, which could have been the cause of his death.
The analysis team, led by Dr. Evan Chapman, a senior archaeology curator at the Amgueddfa Cymru museum in Wales, stated that the man was only 21-25 years old, and the burial method suggests he may have experienced “death twice.”
This means that the face-down position and being bound were intended to prevent the dead from rising again, acting as a form of magic to “seal” the spirits.
However, it is puzzling that he was still buried in a warrior’s cloak, with the sword beside him, indicating a certain level of respect. The grave was also carefully constructed using stones.
Previously, another ancient grave was discovered containing a decapitated skeleton, with the skull placed at the feet, a burial style for those considered vampires, intended to prevent them from rising again.
This vaguely hints at some mysterious occurrence that took place in the area 1,800 years ago, leading to the emergence of these strange graves. Scientists are still trying to explain this.
According to the archaeological company Red River Archaeology, it may be related to the remains of the nearby Whitton Lodge villa, which was excavated half a century ago.
The grave was found while surveying the area for a road improvement project near the town of Barry, in Southern Wales.
