Skagafj�r�ur in North West Iceland has been the site of extensive archeological research over the past 20 years. The excavations this summer have concentrated on Keflav�k in Hegranes. Among the finds are the remains of a fairly large church and about 45 graves in a circle formed churchyard, with a number of skeletons in various shapes of decay.
Silver coin with Christian cross [Credit: Iceland Review Online] |
Two unique items have been found. A bone pin with an animal head and a silver coin, somewhat similar to other coins found in Nordic countries, but thought to have some distinguishing features, which will be examined by specialists. Another such pin has been found at Keldurdalur, another nearby site in Skagafj�r�ur.
The Keldudalur graveyard [Credit: Iceland Review Online] |
The cemetery is, to date, the most complete 11th century cemetery excavated in Iceland and the good preservation of the skeletons makes it an important reference material. Keldudalur is an interesting local case study, important for the interpretation of both local and regional development as well as throwing a light on a time period which is, essentially, the earliest historical period in Iceland but which is also, to a great extent, lacking in written sources.
Bone pin with an animal head [Credit: Iceland Review Online] |
Author: Benedikt J�hannesson | Source: Iceland Review Online [August 01, 2016]
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