Archaeologists in Norway have made a fascinating discovery of 41 graves dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages, each containing children. The graves were found near Fredrikstad, about 50 miles south of Oslo, and were marked by circles of carefully arranged stones. These stone formations, measuring up to 6 feet across, were buried just below the surface and contained cremated human remains along with pottery shards.
A recent analysis revealed that the children buried in these graves died between 800 and 200 B.C., with most of them being infants. This discovery has puzzled experts as the children did not all die in a single event like a natural disaster or epidemic. The area where the graves were found is surrounded by rock carvings depicting voyages and sun worship, adding to the mystery of the site.
The unique concentration of children’s graves in Europe has left archaeologists searching for answers. The high rate of infant mortality during that time period may explain the presence of so many children’s graves, but the exact reason remains unknown. Further analysis of the artifacts found at the site, including pottery fragments and a potential metal brooch, may provide more insight into the lives and customs of the people who lived there.
The discovery of these ancient graves was accidental, as archaeologists were originally investigating a nearby Stone Age settlement. The meticulous placement of stones in the graves suggests that they were part of a ceremonial or ritualistic burial practice. The care taken in arranging the stones, along with the presence of cooking pits and fireplaces nearby, indicates that gatherings and ceremonies likely took place in connection with the burials.
The burial site at Fredrikstad stands out for its unusual concentration of children’s graves and the detailed craftsmanship of the stone formations. The children were laid to rest with great care, sparking questions about who they were and why they were buried in such a manner. The upcoming exhibition “In Memory of the Children” at the Cultural History museum in Oslo will showcase one of the stone formations, shedding light on this intriguing archaeological find.
Overall, the discovery of these mysterious children’s graves in Norway adds a new chapter to the region’s ancient history, raising more questions than answers about the lives and customs of the people who lived there thousands of years ago.
