A study of eight 14th-century tombs at the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Pedralbes in Barcelona, Spain, has uncovered evidence that challenges several long-accepted identifications.
The work began in 2024 as part of preparations for the monastery’s 700th anniversary. So far, specialists have examined the remains of 25 people buried during the monastery’s early years.
One of its biggest surprises came from the tomb that is traditionally associated with Artau de Foces. No male remains were found. Instead, archaeologists found two women and three children.
Another, a burial of Francesca Saportella, contained the remains of at least nine people. It appeared the tomb was opened repeatedly and used over a long period.
Queen Elisenda de Montcada’s tomb was also investigated. Her remains were recovered from a medieval wooden box. The skeleton shows that she died at about 70 years of age. Some silk cloth (woven with metallic thread) survived the funeral.
The excavations revealed a variety of burial practices. Some individuals had been wrapped in textiles before burial, while others were placed directly within the tombs. Candles, cords and traces of plant material were also recovered from several graves.
Most of the remains belonged to women, although children and adolescents were also represented. Many of the skeletons showed evidence of arthritis, injuries and other health conditions.
Plant remains recovered from the tombs included flowers and aromatic species appearing to have been part of burial rituals.
DNA and tooth samples are now being extracted. The researchers hope the results will allow them to find some of the buried and to identify possible family connections.
Further laboratory work including radiocarbon dating will take place in 2027.
Sources : Barcelona City Council
