Ancient stone circles in Norway were hiding a dark secret: dozens of children's graves

Ancient stone circles that have recently been discovered in Norway have unveiled a somber secret - the presence of numerous children's burial grounds dating back to the Bronze and Iron Ages. The unearthing of these intriguing burials has left archaeologists perplexed as to their significance and purpose. The meticulous arrangement of circles, formed using carefully positioned stones, was uncovered close to Fredrikstad, roughly 50 miles south of Oslo near the Swedish border. The discovery of 41 different round stone formations, each measuring up to 6 feet (2 meters) in diameter, baffled researchers until further investigations revealed the presence of burned bones and pottery shards beneath the stones.

What makes this event more remarkable is the age of the graves, ranging between 800 and 200 B.C., indicating that this burial site was utilized over an extensive period. The graves predominantly included infants, alongside children aged 3 to 6 years old. Notably, this concentration of children's graves is unparalleled in Europe, drawing profound interest from experts around the world. Despite limited explanations, experts have posited that the high rate of infant mortality during this period may partially account for the presence of these burials; however, additional factors contributing to this remarkable site remain elusive.

Intriguingly, the vicinity surrounding the burial ground features an abundance of rock carvings depicting voyages and worship of the sun. The museum responsible for the excavations has appropriately characterized this historic find as exceptional in its scale and focused exclusively on children's burials. Although the scientists delicately undertook investigations, meticulously documenting and obtaining crucial samples from the site, the majority of the preserved remains have been respectfully reburied. However, one specific stone formation will soon be showcased in an upcoming exhibition named "In Memory of the Children" held at the Cultural History museum in Oslo.

Unraveling the mysteries hidden in the artifacts is the next step for archaeologists. Some pottery fragments discovered at the site will undergo extensive analysis, as researchers hope they may reveal insights into their purpose and significance. Moreover, the artifacts, including a potential metal brooch, will offer clues about the culture that existed during this time. Of particular intrigue are the vessels placed between the graves, and archaeologists are keen to uncover the contents housed within these carefully situated pottery pieces.

Oddly enough, the burial ground was discovered accidentally during an investigation of a Stone Age settlement in the vicinity. During the Nordic Bronze and Iron Ages, cremation was a common practice, with pyres utilized to incinerate the dead. Subsequently, any remaining bones would either be buried or scattered. The custom dictated the construction of a flat layer of stones arranged in patterns like spirals or wheels over the cremation site. However, the grave site near Fredrikstad deviated significantly from this norm. The peculiar proximity of these graves suggests an open landscape that was likely frequented by passersby. Moreover, the presence of cooking pits and fireplaces adjacent to the site alludes to gatherings and ceremonies closely intertwined with the burial rituals.

The exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail in the stone arrangements have puzzled experts, yet exploring the distinct nature of these grave sites may convey some semblance of understanding. Each stone derived from a unique location and was painstakingly placed with precision, raising questions regarding the individuals behind such meticulous efforts. The heartrending realization that the majority of the interred were children adds another layer of intrigue to this enigmatic burial ground, as the extraordinary care taken in commemorating these young lives leaves archaeologists speculating about the motivations and meaning behind their burial practices. With careful analysis and continued study, scholars hope to unlock the profound secrets hidden within these ancient stone circles and shed light on this fascinating yet sorrowful chapter of history.