Viking treasure discovered in Norway after 1,000 years untouched

Archaeologists from the University of Stavanger in Norway can boast of an extraordinary discovery—they have found a treasure from the Viking age that has remained "untouched" for over 1,000 years! These are four silver bracelets buried approximately 8 inches underground. Initially, scientists thought they had found ordinary copper wires.

Norwegian archaeologists have uncovered a real treasure from the Viking age! These four uniquely decorated silver bracelets probably date from the 9th century. The jewellery was discovered approximately 8 inches underground on the slope of a mountain in Ardal in Hjelmeland municipality in Ryfylke.

This is definitely the biggest thing I have experienced in my career - said Volker Demuth, archaeologist and project manager at the Archaeological Museum of the University of Stavanger.

Scientists did not immediately realise that they were dealing with silver jewellery. Initially, they thought they had encountered hidden copper wires in the soil, often found in agricultural areas. The truth, however, turned out to be surprising.

As livescience.com describes, there was once (793–1066 AD) a "large and powerful" Viking farm in Ardal. In addition to the jewellery, researchers discovered a number of artefacts, including pots, rivets, knife blades, and whetstones for sharpening tools. There is also evidence that the farm was burned, which "coincides with the period of great unrest in the Viking age."

If people who lived on this farm had to flee from an attack, it would be natural to hide away the valuables you had before escaping to the mountains - Demuth explained.

According to sciencenorway.no, the treasure was buried under a house that was probably a slave house.

According to scientists, the silver came from abroad, probably from trade, gifts, or loot.

IThis is a unique find, because we very rarely find such objects exactly where they were placed. As a rule, such valuable objects are discovered on fields that have been plowed, where an object has been completely taken out of its original context. Since the silver hoard has not been moved, it can give us completely new insights into life and society in the Viking Age - emphasised the project manager.

The silver bracelets were evidence of their owner's wealth and also served as a unit of payment. Vikings traded silver, received it as a gift, or took it as loot during raids.

Excavation work continues on the farm site.