Westminster Abbey skeleton identified as possible 11th-century abbot

Archaeologists have potentially identified the occupant of a mysterious skeleton found within a Roman-era sarcophagus at Westminster Abbey. The remains, which were discovered in 1820 and thought to be lost for over a century, were found to be nearly complete during conservation work in 2016.

Research led by consultant archaeologist Warwick Rodwell, published in the Journal of the British Archaeological Association, indicates the individual was a high-ranking medieval monk rather than the Roman citizen named in the sarcophagus's original inscription. While the stone vessel was dedicated to Valerius Amandinus from the 4th or 5th century, a large Latin cross carved into the lid suggests the tomb was repurposed centuries later.

Radiocarbon dating places the remains between 987 and 1052 AD. The individual was a man between 35 and 49 years old, standing approximately 1.75 meters tall. Based on historical records, researchers have identified two primary candidates for the identity: Ælfwig, an abbot who died around 1020, or his successor, Wulnoth, who died in 1049. Rodwell considers Ælfwig the most likely candidate.