Archaeologists have been left baffled by a mysterious early medieval cemetery discovered in Wales.
The cemetery was found in a field close to Fonmon Castle near at the end of the runway at Cardiff airport.
Experts estimate the site dates back at least 1,400 and possibly 1,500 years, with 18 of the estimated 70 graves having been excavated so far.
The team has been busy carefully removing a thin layer of topsoil to expose graves carved into the bedrock long ago.
Some of the bodies were positioned unusually
University of Cardiff
Dr Andy Seaman, a lecturer in early medieval archaeology at Cardiff University, said: “This is a really exciting discovery.
“Sites of this date are extremely rare in Wales and often do not preserve bone and artefacts. The Fonmon cemetery will allow us to discover so much about the people who lived here around 1,400 years ago.
“Other similar sites have found bodies in crouched positions such as this, but considering the number of graves we have looked at so far, there seem to be a high proportion.
“This could be evidence of some sort of burial rite being carried out.”
The cemetery is located near the Fonmon Castle
WikiCommons
Experts initially assumed they had uncovered an ancient farmstead.
However, more detailed excavations have revealed it was instead a cemetery containing burials dating to the sixth and seventh centuries AD.
Cardiff University archaeology student Jessica Morgan said: “I’ve worked at Fonmon for the last two summers, and it has been a fantastic experience.
“My time here has given me the valuable skills I need for a career in archaeology, expanded my knowledge about early medieval archaeology, and brought me closer to my Welsh heritage.”
A set of remains uncovered during the dig
University of Cardiff
Fonmon Castle was built as a defensive keep and administration centre in about 1180 AD.
It was originally owned by the St John family, who were descended from Norman knights.
Nigel Ford, who purchased Fonmon Castle in 2019 said: “I am thrilled by this incredible discovery and find it fascinating.
“I can’t wait to find out more about the people who used to live at Fonmon and believe that we can learn valuable lessons from the past.”
