Archaeologists recently uncovered 24 identifiable skeletons dating back to the 7th century on the grounds of The Old Bell Hotel next to Malmesbury Abbey in the U.K. These Anglo-Saxon skeletons are believed to be from 670 to 940 AD. The discovery was made during the Bid Athelstan Dig Day, where 13 dig sites across the town were excavated. It was unexpected to find so many burials in this location, especially since they were not in the believed location of the medieval cemetery near the Abbey, but west of the former cloisters. This finding is significant because it is the first physical evidence of early monastic life in Malmesbury.
The Old Bell Hotel, recognized as a historical site dating back to 1220, was found to have been built near these ancient burial sites. The representative of Cotswold Archaeology noted that the builders of the hotel likely did not know about the cemetery’s existence, as there is an approximately 500-year gap between their constructions. It is common for medieval walls to be constructed directly over, and sometimes even through, burials. It is possible that human remains were encountered while laying the foundations of the hotel, but the builders chose to continue their work regardless. The current hotel owners, Jim and Whit Hanks, expressed their honor in being a part of local history and preserving the heritage of the town.
The discovery of these ancient skeletons near Malmesbury Abbey is significant, as it adds to the understanding of the early monastic life in the area. This finding is especially important because it is the first physical evidence of such early activities in Malmesbury. The Anglo-Saxon skeletons unearthed provide valuable insight into the history and development of the town, shedding light on the lives of individuals who lived in the area hundreds of years ago. The significance of this discovery lies in the connection it provides to the past, allowing researchers to piece together the puzzle of the town’s history.
The Big Athelstan Dig, which led to the discovery of the ancient skeletons, is part of the celebration of the 1100th anniversary of Athelstan’s crowning as the first King of all England. This event brought together archaeologists, volunteers, and local residents to explore various dig sites across the town, leading to unexpected findings such as the one near The Old Bell Hotel. The historical significance of this discovery adds to the overall celebration of Athelstan’s legacy and contributes to a deeper understanding of the town’s past. The involvement of the community in archaeological excavations further strengthens the connections between present-day residents and their historical roots.
The unexpected discovery of the Anglo-Saxon skeletons near Malmesbury Abbey highlights the rich history of the area and the importance of archaeological exploration. The presence of these ancient burials near The Old Bell Hotel provides a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the early monastic life that existed in the region centuries ago. The collaboration between archaeologists, volunteers, and local residents in uncovering these artifacts demonstrates the value of community involvement in preserving and celebrating the heritage of a town. The ongoing research and excavation efforts will continue to uncover new insights into Malmesbury’s history and contribute to a deeper understanding of its past.
