Archaeologists discover a child's skull built into the floor of a 2,500-year-old Scandinavian house
Archaeologists studying 200 human remains from Iron Age and Viking Age Scandinavia have found evidence of high levels of interpersonal violence. Many victims were buried in unconventional locations like wells, pits, or under house floors, suggesting a brutal social environment.
Why it matters
This research provides new insights into the social structures and violent realities of ancient Scandinavian societies, challenging previous assumptions about burial practices.
A study of nearly 200 individuals buried in domestic contexts in ancient and Viking Age Scandinavia has revealed unusually high levels of violence.
By Kristina Killgrove Edited by Laura Geggel , James Price Published 6 October 2026 In News 4 min read When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's how it works .
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