News

Archaeological finds shed light on medieval women’s cemetery mystery

Evidence is increasingly suggesting that these women may have belonged to a pioneering female religious group.

Archaeologists have made significant discoveries in a medieval cemetery in Wales, shedding new light on the mysterious women buried there and bringing them closer to unraveling the secrets surrounding these ancient graves.

Five small round beads arranged horizontally on a white surface. Each bead has a hole in the centre. They are multicoloured, from left to right, they are dark red, orange, light blue, yellow and green. — These tiny beads could have been stitched onto clothing or attached to jewellery

Excavations have uncovered the remnants of a potential building, as well as an array of domestic and decorative artifacts, including vibrant colored glass beads that offer a glimpse into the lives of the cemetery's inhabitants.

To date, 58 skeletons have been unearthed at the site, with the vast majority belonging to women who lived during the 6th or 7th Century, a finding that has piqued the interest of researchers.

The latest findings contribute to a growing body of evidence suggesting that the burial ground was once part of an early female religious community, a theory that continues to gain traction among scholars.

For the past four years, a team of archaeologists has been conducting excavations at the site, located within the grounds of Fonmon Castle, near the Cardiff airport runway.

A human skeleton is lying in an oval-shaped grave cut into limestone bedrock. The bones are positioned naturally, with the skull at one end and legs extended. The ground surrounding the grave is light brown and cracked. — The 1,500-year-old skeletons are intact and well preserved

The skeletons, buried in shallow graves carved into the limestone bedrock, reveal a complex picture of lives marked by hardship, yet also hint at a level of wealth and luxury, as evidenced by the objects found among the graves.

The identities of the women buried at the site remain a topic of fascination and speculation among the research team, who are working to piece together the stories of these enigmatic individuals.

A major breakthrough has come with the discovery of what appears to be the outline of a small building, which may hold a crucial clue to understanding the purpose and significance of the site.

According to Dr. Andy Seaman, the lead archaeologist from Cardiff University, the find is yielding fragments of building stone, potentially indicating a structural feature, such as a small shrine or chapel.

Dr. Seaman believes that the site may be an example of an early religious community, a notion that is supported by the layout and contents of the cemetery.

The potential building is situated at the center of the cemetery, with graves clustered around it, suggesting that the individuals buried there sought to be interred in close proximity to this feature.

Aerial view of the archaeological dig site. The location of a possible building has been graphically highlighted in pink. Six or seven graves are clustered around it. There are another six or seven graves visible that are located further from the highlighted feature. Archaeologists are working at different parts of the site wearing yellow high visibility jackets. The wider area of the cemetery that is being excavated has exposed brown soil. It is surrounded by a green field. — Graves are clustered around the possible building, which is highlighted in pink

In some cases, notes Cardiff University archaeologist Tudur Davies, multiple individuals were buried in the same grave, with some graves containing two, three, or even four people.

This practice, Davies observes, indicates that the location was highly sought after for burials, with the deceased being placed in the same spot repeatedly, and existing remains being carefully relocated to make way for new burials.

The lack of taboo surrounding the reuse of graves is a notable aspect of the cemetery, with bodies being placed in the same location without hesitation, and existing remains being moved to accommodate new burials.

The artifacts uncovered at the site are providing valuable insights into the lives of the individuals buried there, offering a unique window into the culture and traditions of the time.

At Cardiff University's lab, conservator Nicola Emmerson is meticulously cleaning an ornate copper brooch, which is believed to be made of bronze and possibly gilded with a gold coating.

Three artefacts are displayed against a black background. On the left, is a green almost circular metal brooch with a long pin. It has tiny dots etched into the pin, while one of the terminals of the brooch has four large dots. It is partially covered in soil.
In the centre of the picture is a decorated pin made of bone. It is broken into four pieces. The top of the pin is intricately carved with a pattern. On the right is a fragment of a comb with broken teeth that has been carved from antler. — Items include a copper brooch, a decorated bone pin and a comb carved from antler

The brooch features green enamel details, and Emmerson notes that it would have been a highly decorative and striking piece, making it a significant find for the site.

Alongside the brooch, the team has also discovered a bone pin adorned with intricate patterns, as well as a comb crafted from antler, which demonstrate the skill and craftsmanship of the individuals who created them.

The discovery of multicolored glass beads, each measuring approximately 3mm in diameter, has also generated excitement among the researchers, as these tiny objects would have been used to adorn clothing or jewelry.

In addition to these personal items, the team has also found a range of domestic artifacts, including a quern stone for grinding flour, pottery, and glassware, which suggest that the site was not solely a burial ground, but also a place of residence.

These findings, according to Dr. Seaman, indicate that the community was not only a place of worship but also a thriving residential area, with its own daily routines and activities.

The presence of these domestic items, Dr. Seaman notes, highlights the dual nature of the site, which served both as a place of burial and a living community.

Several fragments of glass arranged in a straight line on a dark surface. They vary in size and shape, and some having a yellow tint and others a green and blue hue. One shard is finely etched with a pattern. — Fragments of glassware were found amongst the graves

The discovery of a quern stone, pottery, and glassware, Dr. Seaman explains, demonstrates that the site was home to a self-sufficient community, capable of meeting its own needs.

It appears that the community was an enclosed one, with its members living in close proximity to the cemetery, yet separate from the broader society.

As the researchers continue to analyze their findings, a more complete picture of the community is beginning to emerge, with the various pieces of evidence slowly falling into place.

However, several questions remain unanswered, including the identities of the few men and children found at the site, and the circumstances surrounding their burials.

Close-up of an archaeologist’s hands carefully cleaning a small bone fragment. They are holding the bone in one hand and using a thin wooden tool to scrape away the soil that it is covered with. The archaeologist is wearing a yellow high-visibility vest and a cap. — Little is known about early religious communities from this area

The presence of a small number of men and children has raised questions about their relationships to the women buried at the site, and the team is working to determine whether they were family members or had other connections to the community.

The discovery of two women buried in a ditch, one with her hands and feet tied, has also sparked curiosity, with the team seeking to understand the circumstances that led to their burial in this manner.

The researchers are now exploring the possibility that the site may be an example of an early Christian community, a theory that could shed new light on the development of Christianity during this period.

Five archaeologists lying face down on the ground clustered around a grave. They are wearing bright yellow high-visibility vests and reaching down into the grave with their hands and tools. — The excavations will continue at the site in 2026

According to Dr. Seaman, this period in history is not well understood, and the site offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the functioning and organization of early church communities.

The team's findings have the potential to fill a significant gap in our knowledge of early Christianity, and Dr. Seaman notes that the site is particularly valuable because it dates back to a formative period in the history of the church.

The discovery of the site, Dr. Seaman explains, provides a rare chance to examine the workings of an early Christian community, including its social structure, rituals, and daily life.

The archaeological team plans to resume excavations later this year, with the goal of uncovering further evidence and shedding more light on the mysteries surrounding this enigmatic site.

Up Next

Chickenpox vaccine eligibility and symptoms explained

Don't Miss

UK company launches space-based factory with high-temperature furnace

News

Aberdeen to unveil new manager soon with Docherty set to take assistant role

Aberdeen has bolstered its interim management team with the return of Tony Docherty, who previously served as an assistant manager, to support Peter Leven, amid anticipation of a permanent appointment announcement that sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel had indicated would be made “imminently”.

Ross County parted ways with Tony Docherty in December, and he has now taken on a new role.

Aberdeen have brought in former assistant manager Tony Docherty to support Peter Leven's interim management team, despite sporting director Lutz Pfannenstiel indicating that a permanent appointment was imminent.

Docherty's return to Aberdeen comes just a week after Eirik Horneland, a former coach of Rosenborg, Brann, and Saint-Etienne, emerged as a top contender to succeed Jimmy Thelin, who was sacked earlier.

As Aberdeen delays making a full-time appointment, speculation surrounding Eirik Horneland's availability has arisen, with reports suggesting the 50-year-old Norwegian may not be able to take on the role until summer.

Since Jimmy Thelin's dismissal on January 4, Lutz Pfannenstiel has been leading the search for a replacement, and he confirmed that Tony Docherty would be joining the team to assist Peter Leven during the interim period.

Dundee Utd are facing a challenging schedule, with four matches in 14 days set to take place on a weather-affected pitch.

According to Stavrum, Eirik Horneland's coaching style, characterized by intensity, would be a good fit for Aberdeen.

Tony Docherty initially joined Aberdeen in 2013 as part of Derek McInnes' management team and spent eight years at the club.

Before his stint at Aberdeen, Docherty served as McInnes' assistant at Kilmarnock and later managed Dundee and Ross County, but his time at Ross County ended in December when he was let go with the team at the bottom of the Championship.

Lutz Pfannenstiel praised Tony Docherty's experience, stating that he has a deep understanding of the club and will be a valuable asset during the transition period.

Pfannenstiel highlighted Docherty's extensive knowledge of the Scottish Premiership, gained through his experience as both a coach and manager, which will be beneficial to the team in the short term.

The club's managerial search is nearing its conclusion, and an announcement regarding the new head coach is expected soon, according to Pfannenstiel.

Peter Leven, who is serving as caretaker manager for the third time, expressed his enthusiasm for Tony Docherty's appointment.

Leven welcomed Docherty's return, stating that his experience will be a significant boost to the team, particularly during the upcoming matches.

Leven noted that Docherty was eager to join the team and that his presence will provide valuable support during both training sessions and matches.

Eirik Horneland left his position at Saint-Etienne in early February, at which point his team was fourth in France's second tier.

If Aberdeen decides to wait until summer for Horneland to take over, it will be similar to the six-month delay that occurred when Jimmy Thelin joined the club from Elfsborg in the summer of 2024.

For the latest news, analysis, and fan perspectives on Aberdeen, visit our dedicated page.

News

Peter Murrell faces allegations of misusing £459,000 in funds over 12 years

Allegations have been made that he bought various items, such as luxury goods, jewellery, cosmetics, two cars and a motorhome, in an improper manner.

Peter Murrell, the former chief executive of the Scottish National Party, is facing allegations of embezzling £459,000 from the party over a 12-year period.

Peter Murrell looking off to his right while sitting in a room. He is wearing a black suit, white shirt and dark coloured tie. — Peter Murrell is due to appear in court next Friday for a preliminary hearing

An indictment document obtained by BBC News outlines the case against Murrell, who is the estranged husband of former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

The alleged embezzlement is said to have occurred between August 2010 and January 2023, according to the indictment.

It is claimed that Murrell used party funds to purchase luxury items, including jewellery, cosmetics, and vehicles, such as two cars and a motorhome.

The Scottish Sun was the first to report on the details of the indictment.

A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled to take place at the High Court in Glasgow on Friday, 20 February, where Murrell is expected to appear.

During his initial court appearance at Edinburgh Sheriff Court, Murrell made no plea and was subsequently granted bail.

Murrell's arrest in 2023 was part of Operation Branchform, a police investigation into the SNP's funding and finances, which led to him being charged with embezzlement in April 2024.

A police van and a police officer outside Murrell's home in April 2023. — Murrell was arrested in 2023 as part of a probe into the SNP's finances

Although Sturgeon was questioned by police as part of the investigation, she is no longer considered a suspect.

BBC News has obtained a copy of the indictment against Murrell ahead of his upcoming court appearance.

It is worth noting that the indictment is subject to change until the case is heard in court and may be amended throughout the judicial process.

The indictment alleges that Murrell purchased a £124,550 motorhome for personal use and created false documents to justify the expense as a legitimate party expenditure.

Murrell is also accused of using £57,500 of party funds to buy a Jaguar I-PACE car in 2019, and falsifying an invoice to conceal the true nature of the purchase.

Furthermore, it is alleged that when the Jaguar was sold in 2021, Murrell deposited more than £47,000 into his personal bank account.

The indictment also claims that Murrell embezzled £16,489 from the SNP to partially fund the purchase of a Volkswagen Golf in 2016.

A list of over 80 retailers is included in the indictment, where Murrell allegedly made purchases totalling more than £159,000 between 2014 and 2022, using party credit or charge cards for personal expenses.

The retailers named in the indictment include Harrods, the Royal Mint, John Lewis, Homebase, and Argos, among others.

It is alleged that Murrell used SNP credit or charge cards to make these purchases and then inserted false or inaccurate accounting codes and descriptions into the party's accounting systems.

The indictment also accuses Murrell of making purchases worth over £81,600 through Amazon using the same method.

Murrell served as the SNP's chief executive for 22 years before his departure.

Murrell and Sturgeon were married in 2010, but announced their separation in January 2025, after being together for many years.

News

Bangladesh Nationalist Party Wins Landslide in Country’s First Poll Since Youth-Led Protests

The public is looking forward to a shift back to democratic governance, following a 15-year period of authoritarian leadership by Sheikh Hasina.

In a significant shift in the country's political landscape, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has achieved a decisive majority in parliament, 18 months after widespread protests led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, the country's longest-serving prime minister.

Supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) show a victory sign in front of a banner with Tarique Rahman’s photo, as the results project BNP's victory in the 13th general election, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, February 13, 2026. REUTERS/Mohammad Ponir Hossain — Tarique Rahman has been out of the country for 17 years. He has promised democracy will be restored

The BNP secured over two-thirds of the seats in the recent general election, with the Jamaat party, the main Islamist party in the country, coming in second; meanwhile, the Awami League, led by Hasina, was not allowed to participate in the election.

As the BNP's leader, Tarique Rahman is poised to become the next prime minister, facing significant challenges in revitalizing the economy and restoring democratic principles after 15 years of authoritarian rule under Hasina's leadership.

In a concurrent referendum, voters also expressed support for comprehensive democratic reforms, which are expected to shape the country's future.

Following Friday prayers in Dhaka, Tarique Rahman expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, "I am grateful for the love you have shown me"; his party has chosen not to hold a victory procession.

Rahman, who was elected to parliament for the first time, was among the 212 successful BNP candidates; according to the Election Commission, voter turnout was 59.44%.

This marks a significant turnaround for Rahman, who spent 17 years in self-imposed exile in London before taking over as party leader after his mother, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, passed away in December.

During his campaign, Rahman pledged to restore democratic principles and practices in the country.

The new government will need to address pressing issues, including economic revitalization, controlling rising food prices, and creating employment opportunities for the country's large youth population.

Rebuilding relations with neighboring India is also a key priority for the incoming government.

In the aftermath of his victory, Rahman received a congratulatory call from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who acknowledged his "remarkable victory".

Modi took to social media to reaffirm India's commitment to promoting peace, progress, and prosperity in both countries, citing their deep historical and cultural ties.

Although the BNP has pledged to bring about change, the party has faced criticism in the past for corruption and alleged human rights abuses during its previous tenure in government in the early 2000s.

The recent election represents a pivotal moment for the country, with one of the two main parties achieving a significant victory, presenting both opportunities and risks.

Proposed constitutional reforms include introducing term limits for the prime minister, establishing a directly elected upper house of parliament, strengthening presidential powers, and increasing judicial independence.

The reforms also aim to increase female representation in parliament, an area where significant progress is still needed, as evidenced by the limited number of successful female candidates in the recent election.

As the newly elected leader, Tarique Rahman will face intense scrutiny as he works to deliver on his promises to a predominantly young electorate eager for change, many of whom participated in the student-led protests that ultimately led to Hasina's removal and paved the way for the February 12 election.