Ancient Skeletons Unearthed in U.K. Hotel Garden Shed Light on Monastic Community

In a remarkable discovery, archeologists in the U.K. have found more than two dozen human skeletons dating back over 1,000 years in the garden of The Old Bell Hotel in Malmesbury, Wiltshire. The bones were initially uncovered last year during preparations for a new building at the hotel, according to archeology firm Cotswold Archeology.

Among the 24 skeletons found were Anglo-Saxon women who were genealogically linked to multiple individuals. The remaining remains included men and children. Researchers believe that these skeletons once belonged to members of a monastic community associated with the prestigious Malmesbury Abbey, a 12th-century place of worship.

Dating between 670 and 940 AD, these skeletons provide valuable insights into the functioning of the abbey during its early years as a monastery. Paolo Guarino, an Assistant Publications Manager and resident of Malmesbury, expressed the significance of this find, stating, "We knew from historical sources that the monastery was founded in that period, but we never had solid evidence before this excavation. The discovery includes remains from the Middle Saxon period, marking the first confirmed evidence of 7th- to 9th-century activity in Malmesbury."

The Old Bell Hotel, which has a rich history dating back to 1220, was playing host to an archeology team as part of a community event where volunteers conducted excavations in 15 test pits around Malmesbury. This fascinating discovery brings to light a previously unknown chapter in the history of both the hotel and the abbey, shedding new light on the lives of those who were part of the monastic community during that time.

The findings of these ancient skeletons not only offer a unique glimpse into the past, but also provide researchers with valuable material for further study. By piecing together the lives of these individuals and understanding the functioning of the monastery, experts hope to gain a better understanding of the cultural and historical significance of Malmesbury Abbey.

With ongoing archeological efforts and the community's active involvement, there is no doubt that this remarkable discovery will continue to uncover new revelations about the past, further deepening our knowledge and appreciation of ancient cultures.