Archaeologists excavating a site on the Île de Ré, off the western coast of France, have uncovered medieval graves that provide new insights into connections between the Nordic world and the Atlantic coast during the early Middle Ages. The discovery, led by archaeologists from the French National Institute for Preventive Archaeological Research (INRAP), includes unusual burials and grave goods that suggest long-distance trade and cultural exchanges.

A Medieval Burial Ground with Unusual Finds

The excavation, commissioned by the French government (DRAC Nouvelle-Aquitaine) in December 2024, focused on a 900 m² area near the ancient shoreline at La Flotte, a site occupied since antiquity. Researchers unearthed approximately 50 graves surrounding and inside a chapel, believed to be the remains of the Sainte-Eulalie priory, first mentioned in 1156 but with origins that remain unclear. The priory was destroyed during the Wars of Religion.

Burial activity at the site spanned from the late 8th century to the 15th century. Most graves from the Carolingian period (late 8th–10th centuries) were simple pit burials, covered with wooden or stone structures. However, several stood out due to unusual body positions and grave goods.

Five Atypical Burials and Foreign Artifacts

Typically, medieval Christian burials followed strict conventions, with bodies laid on their backs and feet extended. Yet, among the graves at La Flotte, three individuals were found in strikingly different positions—one on their side with bent legs, another face down, and a third with bent and raised limbs. The last two burials were also oriented in an unusual south-southwest direction.

Even more notably, several graves contained personal items—a rarity in Carolingian burial customs. These “dressed” burials included objects such as combs made of bone or antler, one of which bore geometric designs similar to artifacts found in the Frisian region. Beads of amber, glass, bone, and copper alloy—commonly associated with the Nordic world in the 9th century—were also present.

Other metal objects included a folding knife, a type previously identified in southeast England, and a copper alloy belt featuring interlaced decorations reminiscent of Anglo-Saxon craftsmanship. The presence of such items suggests cultural and economic ties between La Flotte and regions bordering the North Sea.

Tracing Origins Through Scientific Analysis

The distinctive nature of the grave goods at La Flotte has posed challenges for comparison, as similar finds are rare in France. To better understand their origins, researchers are conducting detailed analyses on the materials used in the artifacts, including glass beads, animal-derived objects like combs, and preserved organic remains such as textiles and wood.

These studies are being carried out at the Arc’Antique laboratory, a specialist institution in the conservation of archaeological artifacts, where experts will stabilize and clean fragile items, including delicate amber beads. Advanced imaging and heritage science techniques will also help reveal decorative patterns and material compositions.

A Foreign Community or High-Status Locals?

The findings at La Flotte raise intriguing questions about the identities of those buried there. Were they foreign traders or settlers from the Nordic world, or local elites who adopted northern cultural elements?

Two main hypotheses are being explored: the individuals may have been part of a foreign group integrated into the local cemetery, or they were privileged members of the local population who displayed their special status in death. To answer these questions, archaeologists will conduct radiocarbon dating of the graves, along with isotopic and genomic analyses, to determine the geographical and genetic origins of the individuals.

Regardless of the outcome, the La Flotte excavation provides compelling archaeological evidence of extensive trade networks, cultural exchanges, and possibly even Viking influence along the French Atlantic coast during the early Middle Ages.

Top Image: Graves installed in the building, possible chapel, with bell ovens from the beginning of the 13th century in the center. © Clémence Pilorge, Inrap