York Minster dig uncovers 800 yr-old skeletons

Human remains believed to date back to the 12th century have been discovered underneath York Minster during rare excavation work at the famous place of worship. 

Field Officer Ian Milsted uncovers human bones and one of the four skulls during the dig at York Minster [Credit: Daily Mail]

For the first time in 40 years, archaeologists were allowed the a 'once in a lifetime' opportunity to dig in a designated part of the church before a lift shaft is built into the Minster's undercroft. 

And it was then that they made the incredible discovery of a collection of bones, including four skulls, at the ancient church. 

York Minster is one of the largest of its kind in northern Europe and one of the oldest in Britain - dating back to the Middle Ages. 

While building of the current Minster began in 1220, the first ever church to be built on the site dates back to 627, when its construction was ordered for the Baptism of Anglo Saxon king Edwin. 

Several graves appear to have been discovered at York minster during the first excavation at the site in 40 years [Credit: Daily Mail]

And archaeologists believe the bones could have been on the site long before the building of the current structure began. 

The York Archaeological Trust has yet to establish the exact age of the remains but as the resting place has been undisturbed for hundreds of years it is thought it could date at least from the 12th century. 

It is the first time in 40 years that excavation work has been carried out inside the building. 

Lead archaeologist Ian Milsted said the dig was a 'once-in-a-lifetime opportunity' to learn more about the cathedral’s history. 

Archaeologists on the dig described it as a 'once in a lifetime ' opportunity to excavate in such a famous historic building [Credit: Daily Mail]

The last dig took place between 1967 and 1972 while underpinning work was carried out. 

The Very Rev Keith Jones, Dean of York, says he hoped the discovery would provide new insights into the earliest years of York Minster’s history. 

He said: 'York Minster’s walls have been witness to centuries of human life and I feel sure that archaeologists are likely to encounter even more human burials during their three-week tenure. 

'We would expect to find, when working at York Minster, evidence of previous life all around the place. 

York Minster is the second largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe at 158 metres long with each of its three towers 60 metres high [Credit: Daily Mail]

'Having found the remains of our forebears, they will be reverently cared for until such time as they can be re-interred.' 

Excavation can only take place in exceptional circumstances at the Minster but work on a new undercroft lift has allowed this rare opportunity for archaeologists. 

The lift is being created for the spring next year as part of the £10.5million York Minster Revealed project, which is aimed at attracting a wider audience to the cathedral. 

Author: Suzannah Hills | Source: Daily Mail [March 09, 2012]