Archaeologists unearthed the evidence of Medieval graveside feasting rituals at Welsh Castle.

The South Wales region archaeologists during the excavating process within the place of Fonmon castel have identified the proof of Medieval grave-side feasting rituals.

Image Credit : Cardiff University

Around 1180, Fonmon Castle was constructed. Based on the castle architecture, most of the early history has been derived, which is helpful to study. However, the origins of Castel were poorly documented.

The castle is said to have been built during the Norman conquest of Glamorgan by Oliver St John of Fonmon, one of the Twelve Knights of Glamorgan.

A recent excavation within the castle grounds discovered remains of animal bone, some with butchery and cooking evidence, metal working trash, and remnants of rare imported glass drinking containers. According to the experts, this material is most likely related to 1,400-year-old grave-side feeding practices.

Dr Andy Seaman, Lecturer in Early Medieval Archaeology, said:

"This is a fantastic discovery." Sites of this era are extremely rare in Wales, and bone and artifacts are frequently lost. The Fonmon cemetery will teach us a lot about the people who lived here roughly 1,400 years ago.

"Other similar sites have discovered bodies in crouched positions like this, but given the number of graves we've examined thus far, there appears to be a high proportion." This could be evidence of a funeral rite being performed."  "There is nothing to suggest that people were living near the site, so the evidence of cooking and glasses certainly suggests some level of ritual feasting, perhaps to celebrate or mourn the dead."

Archaeologists think there are up to 80 remains in the cemetery, some of which are in crouching body positions.