New medieval cemetery discovery could unravel secrets of mysterious women buried centuries ago

DCM Editorial Summary: This story has been independently rewritten and summarised for DCM readers to highlight key developments relevant to the region. Original reporting by BBC, click this post to read the original article.

Kevin Church/BBC News

If you’ve ever been intrigued by early medieval history, recent archaeological discoveries in Wales might catch your interest. Excavations at Fonmon Castle, near Cardiff Airport, have revealed a 6th or 7th-century burial site with an unusual feature: almost all of the 58 uncovered skeletons belong to women. Alongside these remains, researchers have discovered ornate objects such as coloured glass beads, a bronze brooch possibly gilded with gold, and intricately carved bone and antler items.

You’ll find it fascinating that a newly unearthed structure—possibly a small chapel or shrine—lies at the centre of the cemetery. Many graves surround this potential building, indicating that people desired burial close to it, even reusing the same grave spots multiple times. This layout suggests a possible early female religious community, and archaeologists are now considering if this site reflects early Christian worship practices.

As you follow the discoveries, you’ll learn that signs of daily life have also emerged at the dig site. Quern stones for bread-making, pottery, and glassware provide insights into a community that not only buried its dead here but also lived nearby. This hints at a secluded, possibly self-sustained religious group.

At the same time, some mysteries remain. A few men and children have been found buried alongside the women—raising questions about family connections or community roles. Disturbingly, two women were buried in a ditch under suspicious conditions, one with her hands and feet bound. You’ll be left wondering what led to such treatment, with researchers suggesting the possibility of punishment or exclusion.

This evolving dig continues to offer rare glimpses into a little-known period of Welsh history. As excavations resume later this year, scientists hope to further uncover how this early community lived, worshipped, and commemorated their dead during a barely documented era.