The findings provide evidence that supports recent studies into the vast trade network of the Vikings.
Excavations of a Skumsnes site in the Norwegian town of Fitjar uncovered more than a dozen human remains dating back to around 800 AD.
A collection of jewellery, including a brooch, glass beads, silver coins and what’s known as a ‘vulva stone’ was discovered. These stones were believed to symbolise fertility.
A triangular brooch of glass mosaic and gold enamel is suspected to have come from Ireland or England, highlighting the expansive trade of the Vikings.
“There is a growing body of research hinting at the cosmopolitan nature of Viking Age trade, including recent studies revealing extensive trade between the Vikings and the Middle East,” writes Vishwam Sankaran for The Independent.
“A study, published in October, showed that the Vikings were ‘extremely well-travelled’ with a ‘global’ ivory trade network spanning at least three continents.”
“Another set of bangles deemed ‘spectacular silver treasure’ by researchers was discovered in August in Denmark’s Aarhus, suggesting that the site was an international trade hub in the Viking Age with links to Russia, Ukraine and the British Isles.”
Researchers from the University Museum of Bergen have suggested that these graves likely belonged to high-status individuals within Viking culture.
More reading
Mythological marvel: Ancient jewellery unearthed in Italy
Blast from the past: 4,000-year-old jewellery unearthed
Time machine: Aussies in love with ancient Egyptian jewellery
Ancient gold necklace to be returned to Turkey
Jewellery stolen during Second World War returned in special ceremony
4,000 years later: Ancient jewellery unveiled in Scotland
Time travel: Bronze Age jewellery discovered in Europe