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Mystery of Westminster Abbey skeleton solved
Experts identify 1869 skeleton as high-ranking medieval monk.
In brief
Experts identify 1869 skeleton as high-ranking medieval monk. Archaeologists confirm remains found in Roman sarcophagus at Westminster Abbey in 1869 belong to monk Aelfwig or Wulnoth, who died between 1020 and 1049. Originally reported by Dailymail.
Skeletal mystery solved
Archaeologists identified remains found in Roman sarcophagus at Westminster Abbey in 1869 as belonging to a high-ranking medieval monk.
Sarcophagus discovered in 1869
The skeleton was discovered inside a Roman sarcophagus in 1869 after workmen accidentally smashed its lid in 1820.
Initial inscription
The sarcophagus originally had an inscription indicating it belonged to Valerius Amandinus, a wealthy man from 300 to 400AD.
Medieval monk identity
Experts now believe the remains belong to either Aelfwig or Wulnoth, high-ranking medieval monks who died around 1020 and 1049.
Age and height
The skeleton belongs to a man who was around 5ft 9in tall and died between the ages of 35 and 49.
Aelfwig's background
Aelfwig was an Abbot at Westminster Abbey who died around 1020 after a career as a monk.
Wulnoth's background
Wulnoth was Aelfwig's successor who died in 1049 and is presumed to have been buried at Westminster Abbey.
Age calculation
Assuming the Abbot was in his early 20s when appointed and close to 50 when he died, either monk fits the skeleton's age range.
Sarcophagus reuse
The wooden coffin was placed inside the stone burial casket, representing an early example of recycling materials.
Cross on lid
The lid was re-carved to feature a large Latin cross, suggesting the occupant was 'honoured' with a fine sarcophagus.
White residue
Researchers found the outline of a rectangular structure marked with white residue left by lime, indicating a timber coffin.
Sarcophagus display
The sarcophagus is on public display in the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Galleries at Westminster Abbey.
Skeletal analysis
The skeleton's age and height match the historical timeline of Aelfwig or Wulnoth, who were high-ranking monks at Westminster Abbey.
Conclusion
Experts confirm the remains belong to either Aelfwig or Wulnoth, resolving the 150-year-old mystery of the Westminster Abbey skeleton.
What matters most
Archaeologists confirm remains found in Roman sarcophagus at Westminster Abbey in 1869 belong to monk Aelfwig or Wulnoth, who died between 1020 and 1049.
