Archaeologist believes he found legendary Viking ruler's lost grave in remote spot: 'This is rare'
An archaeologist in England claims to have identified the burial site of the legendary Viking leader Ivar the Boneless, potentially marking the first monumental Viking ship burial in England.
Steve Dickinson, an independent archaeologist, believes he has discovered a significant burial site in Cumbria, northwest England, which may belong to the legendary Viking leader Ivar the Boneless. This discovery could represent the first monumental Viking ship burial identified in England, situated in a mound that Dickinson has dubbed the King's Mound. Historical Viking sagas suggest that Ivar was buried in England, and Dickinson's research indicates he might have been laid to rest in a mound located 'on a boundary'.
The site is noteworthy not only for its potential historical significance but also for the rare opportunity it presents to further understand Viking burial practices, especially those related to elite individuals. Dickinson and his team based their findings on extensive studies of medieval documents, which helped them locate the mound and identify 39 smaller mounds nearby. Excavations have so far uncovered several significant artifacts, which may shed light on the burial practices and the cultural context surrounding Ivar the Boneless and his legacy.
The confidentiality of the exact location of King's Mound underscores the importance and sensitivity of archaeological sites. As Dickinson continues his research, the implications of this discovery could resonate within the archaeological community and Viking studies, potentially reshaping our understanding of the Viking presence in England and how their elite were honored in death. This discovery not only captivates historians and archaeologists alike but also attracts public interest regarding the rich and mysterious history of the Viking Age in Britain and beyond.