Archaeology breakthrough as ‘incredible’ ancient sword unearthed from cemetery

A sixth-century sword described as “incredible” by archaeologists has been unearthed from an Anglo-Saxon cemetery in rural Kent.

The sword, which features a silver-and-gilt hilt with intricate patterns, a blade inscribed with runes, and remnants of its leather-and-wood scabbard lined with beaver fur, is remarkably well-preserved.

There is also a ring attached to its pommel that might symbolise an oath to a king or high-ranking figure.

Duncan Sayer, the lead archaeologist and professor at the University of Central Lancashire, described the sword as “an elite object in every way.”

He told The Guardian: “It’s really incredible, in the top echelons of swords, an elite object in every way. It rivals the swords from Dover and Sutton Hoo.”

The grave where the sword was found also contained a gold pendant engraved with a serpent or dragon.

Experts believe this pendant,which would typically be worn by high-status women, may have been a keepsake from a female relative.

The burial site, near Canterbury, has already revealed 12 graves, but archaeologists estimate there could be 200 more with the exact location remaining secret for now.

The cemetery dates back to the fifth and sixth centuries and includes graves with weapons like spears and shields in male burials, while female graves feature brooches, buckles, and knives.

Some of the artifacts also hint at connections beyond Britain. Scandinavian objects were found in a fifth-century woman’s grave, while items from Frankish origins appear in later burials.

These discoveries support the idea of significant migration after Roman rule ended in Britain, with about 75% of DNA in early Anglo-Saxon remains tracing back to continental northern Europe.

The excavation is part of a larger project to study early medieval Britain with Digging for Britain, a BBC Two series, featuring the site.

Prof Alice Roberts, the presenter of Digging for Britain, said: “I’ve never seen one that’s so beautifully preserved. It’s an extraordinary Anglo-Saxon cemetery with incredibly furnished graves. The sword is just astonishing.”

Digging for Britain begins on January 7 at 8pm on BBC Two and iPlayer.