Mystery Skeleton in Westminster Abbey Identified as 11th-Century Abbot
New study suggests remains found in a Roman-era sarcophagus belong to one of two abbots who served in the 11th century.
The identity of a mysterious skeleton discovered at Westminster Abbey more than 150 years ago has potentially been revealed, according to a recent study. Archaeologists have narrowed the possibilities down to two abbots who served at the abbey during the 11th century.
The skeleton was found within a stone sarcophagus that had been unearthed in 1820 by the abbey's chief mason. Workers discovered the vessel while digging on the north side of the abbey, accidentally breaking the lid. The incident was not officially recorded until 1869 when the sarcophagus was repaired, and a Roman-style carving with a Latin inscription dedicated "to the memory of Valerius Amandinus" was noted. However, a large cross carved into the lid suggested the tomb had been repurposed for a later religious figure.
For 150 years, the identity of the occupant remained unknown until 2016 when the sarcophagus was opened for conservation, revealing a skeleton. Despite evidence of tampering over the years—including a hole in the skull and jumbled limb bones—analysis indicated the individual was a middle-aged male of average height who suffered from gout, rib injuries, and osteoarthritis.
Carbon dating placed the individual's life between 987 and 1052, confirming the sarcophagus had been reused. Professor Warwick Rodwell, the Consultant Archaeologist at Westminster Abbey who led the study, examined the birth and death dates of Westminster abbots. This research narrowed the potential candidates to two individuals: Ælfwig, who served from 993 to 1020, and his successor Wulfnoth, who held the position from 1020 to 1049.
"We do not know the date of birth of either," Rodwell stated, per the Daily Mail. "But either would fit equally well if we assume the Abbot was in his early 20s when the appointment was made and close to 50 when he died." Rodwell noted that Ælfwig's prior status as a monk at Westminster might lend favor to his candidacy.
The practice of recycling Roman sarcophagi for burials is considered highly unusual, with no comparable cases documented. Researchers suggest a clue might lie in the inscription itself. The term "memoriae" could indicate that Valerius Amandinus was an early Christian, possibly a significant figure in Roman London, though his career remains undocumented.