Archaeologists Have Just Found A 1,500-Year-Old Sword In A Hidden Grave
An Ancient Anglo-Saxon Cemetery Is Giving Up Its Secrets
An ancient sixth-century sword was recently unearthed from an Anglo-Saxon cemetery in the United Kingdom—and it was in an exceptionally well-preserved condition.
The 1,500-year-old sword has been described as being in the “top echelons of swords”—which means it’s a pretty good sword.
And while it may just be the most exciting treasure found—it wasn’t the only one.
Who Found It?
A group of archaeologists, led by Duncan Sayer, a professor of archaeology at the University of Central Lancashire, were digging for treasure in an Anglo-Saxon cemetery in rural Kent when they struck gold—literally.
The site was one of the most astonishing archaeological digs in the country, as the burials held a trove of grave goods, but the team was particularly impressed by the sword—and for good reason.
Where Was It Found?
The site is said to be an “extraordinary” Anglo-Saxon cemetery for high-status individuals.
It boasts beautifully furnished graves and a great deal of historic weapon burials where you find things like iron spear-points and seaxes (Anglo-Saxon knives).
Upon further discovery, all of the male graves had weapons such as spears and shields, and all the female graves had knives, brooches, buckles, and other pieces of gold jewelry.
As incredible as these findings are, they were still no match for the medieval sword.
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What Does The Sword Look Like?
Found in a man’s grave, the sword has a gilt-and-silver-plated hilt, and is engraved with a decorative pattern. A ring is fused to its pommel (the top of its handle). The long blade sports a “runic script".
Also found, were parts of the swords scabbard—a sheath of wood and leather lined in beaver fur.
The lead archaeologist, Duncan Sayer, had a lot to say about this remarkable object.
What Is Significant About The Sword?
According to Sayer, “Swords like this are very special. It’s really incredible, in the top echelons of swords, an elite object in every way, which is wonderful. It rivals the swords from Dover and from Sutton Hoo”.
He also has some intriguing thoughts about the sword’s origin, too.
