The quiet landscape of Skumsnes farm in Fitjar, southwestern Norway, recently yielded an astonishing glimpse into Viking history, thanks to the serendipitous discovery of a Viking burial ground by members of the Bjørgvin Detector Club. Their metal detectors, initially intended for a casual search, instead led them to an archaeological treasure trove—a cluster of graves dating back to the early 9th century AD. Upon alerting the local museum, archaeologists swiftly commenced excavations, uncovering two remarkably rich graves, both belonging to women of substantial wealth and status within their community. The discovery, made in autumn 2023, offers valuable insights into the lives of Viking women, their roles within society, and the intricate trade networks that spanned Europe during this period.
The first grave, though seemingly plundered sometime after the initial burial, still contained tantalizing fragments of what must have been a lavish array of grave goods. Pieces of gilded oval brooches, typical of Norse design, lay scattered amongst the remains of a metal cauldron or dish, likely imported from southern England or Ireland, evidenced by its distinctive enamel inlay and animal-shaped handles. One particularly intriguing find was a repurposed book clasp, likely originating from a Christian monastery in the British Isles. The Vikings, known for their raiding activities, likely looted the clasp and ingeniously transformed it into a brooch or buckle by adding a needle to the back. This repurposing speaks to their resourcefulness and adaptability, showcasing how they incorporated plundered items into their own material culture. The evidence of plundering – broken jewelry and scattered fragments – points to an intentional disturbance of the grave, possibly motivated by greed or a desire to dishonor the deceased, practices not uncommon during the Viking age.
The second grave, thankfully spared from plunder, proved to be a veritable treasure trove of artifacts, offering an even richer understanding of the deceased woman’s life and status. Unlike the fragmented remains of the first grave, the second burial yielded a remarkable collection of well-preserved items. A key find was a set of textile production tools, suggesting not only the woman’s personal skills but also her leadership role in the farm’s textile operations. High-quality textile production during the Viking age was a prestigious activity and a significant source of income, further solidifying her prominent position within the community. This interpretation is strengthened by the discovery of a bronze key, symbolizing her role as the keeper of the house key and, by extension, the leader of the household. A possible frying pan further emphasizes her domestic authority.
Adorning the deceased woman were ornate brooches and a stunning pearl necklace, composed of 46 glass beads of diverse European and Scandinavian origins interspersed with 11 silver coins. The coins themselves are a testament to the extensive trade networks of the Viking age. One coin, minted in Jutland between 832 and 840 AD, reflects regional trade, while the remaining Frankish coins, dating back to the reign of Louis the Pious (son of Charlemagne), highlight connections that stretched across the continent. These coins, likely acquired through trade, contrast with the likely stolen book clasp from the first grave, illustrating the varied means by which Vikings acquired foreign goods – through both peaceful exchange and forceful acquisition.
The presence of these imported goods highlights the interconnectedness of the Viking world with other European cultures. While some items, like the coins, were likely obtained through trade, others, like the repurposed book clasp, suggest the Vikings’ more aggressive acquisitions through raiding and plundering. This blend of trade and raiding paints a complex picture of Viking interactions with their neighbors, demonstrating a society engaged in both peaceful commerce and violent conquest. The artifacts unearthed in these graves not only provide insights into the lives of these particular women but also offer a broader perspective on Viking society, economy, and international relations.
Beyond the two fully excavated graves, archaeologists also identified and partially examined a third grave at the site containing a gilded brooch and 25 glass beads. The presence of multiple richly furnished graves suggests the possibility that the interred individuals belonged to the same family or held close social ties. This familial connection further enriches the narrative of the site, suggesting a thriving and influential kinship group within the Viking community. With at least 20 other potential graves identified at Skumsnes farm, the site promises further revelations about Viking life and culture. The urgency to excavate these remaining graves stems from their shallow depth, leaving them vulnerable to natural erosion and accidental damage.
The discovery at Skumsnes farm underscores the invaluable contribution of amateur archaeologists and metal detectorists. Their chance encounter with this historical treasure trove has opened a window into the Viking past, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of these affluent women and the broader societal context in which they lived. The continued excavation of the remaining graves holds the potential to further illuminate this crucial period of Scandinavian history, enriching our understanding of Viking society, trade, and cultural practices. The artifacts recovered from these graves will undoubtedly continue to provide valuable data for researchers seeking to piece together the complex tapestry of Viking life.
