Denmark discovery: 1,300-year-old Viking clothing found in rare tomb

Archaeologists at the Skonager site near Varde, in western Jutland, Denmark, have discovered rare 1,300-year-old clothing fragments within a Viking Age tomb. The find, part of 2024 excavations, includes remnants of wool and linen that were preserved due to metal salts released by two oval-shaped female brooches (skålspænder) found with the body of a young girl.

The preservation of these textiles is considered exceptional. Researchers believe the metallic ornaments acted as a preservative against the acidic soil. One of the brooches shows signs of repair, suggesting it may have been a family heirloom that predated the clothing itself.

Experts from Archaeology West Jutland and the National Museum of Denmark will now conduct further analyses, including radiocarbon dating and studies of weaving techniques and pigmentation. These investigations aim to reconstruct the layers, patterns, and colors of the garments, which could provide significant insights into the social status, wealth, and daily life of individuals during the Viking Age.