An Archaeological Revelation: 12th Century Relics Discovered
In the town of Salo, Finland, a groundbreaking discovery has come to light, potentially reshaping scholars’ understanding of Christianity’s history in Finland. During excavations on a landowner’s property, a graveyard, an iron sword, and various grave goods were unearthed, believed to date back to Finland’s 12th century Crusader Era. This marks a significant find, shedding new light on this period in Finnish history.
The Remarkable Finds: Crusader Sword and Belt
The discovery included the excavation of a Crusader sword, its scabbard, and fragments from another sword, alongside human bones and a multitude of iron object fragments. Among the treasures found was a leather belt adorned with bronze beads, a remarkable artifact indicative of the owner’s status and the craftsmanship of the time.
Collaboration and Analysis: Insights from Experts
Upon discovery, the landowner enlisted the expertise of Juha Ruohonen, an archaeology professor at the University of Turku. Together with Sanna Saunaluoma, the archaeologist in charge of the Salo region at the Turku Museum Center, they meticulously examined the site and its findings. The sword, identified as a 12th-century Crusader type, was transferred to the Museum Office for further analysis and preservation.
Treasures Unearthed: The Belt’s Intricate Design
The leather belt discovered alongside the sword was adorned with thirty square bronze beads intricately embellished with rosette patterns. It also featured cross-shaped pendants, a buckle, animal head fittings, and belt dividers. The preservation of fabric remnants linked to the deceased’s clothing adds another layer of significance to this remarkable find.
Christian Customs and Ecclesiastical Presence
The graves were discovered near a medieval stone church, indicating a Christian burial site. This proximity challenges previous assumptions about the timeline of Christianity in Finland, suggesting an earlier ecclesiastical presence than previously thought. This find prompts scholars to reconsider Finland’s Christianization timeline and its connections to broader historical events.
Unlocking Historical Mysteries: Implications of the Discovery
This discovery has the potential to illuminate Finland’s Crusader Era and its early Christianization. While the impact of the Crusade on Finland remains uncertain, archaeologists anticipate that ongoing research will provide valuable insights into this pivotal period of Finnish history. Radiocarbon analysis and further examination of recovered artifacts are underway to unravel more details about these intriguing discoveries.
Continued Investigations: Exploring Finland’s Past
Research on these discoveries is ongoing, with investigations expected to extend into the early months of 2024. Radiocarbon analysis of bone samples and X-ray examination of artifacts like the leather belt and knife sheath aim to uncover more about Finland’s medieval past. As scholars delve deeper into these findings, they hope to unveil more about Finland’s rich historical tapestry.
