Salme ships, Archaeological site in Salme, Estonia
The Salme ships are two Viking-era vessels discovered during road construction work, each approximately 11.5 meters long with military equipment and human remains. They also contained everyday objects that provide insights into daily life of that period.
These ships date from 700 to 800 CE and represent the oldest known sailing vessels in the Baltic Sea region. They demonstrate that people of this era had advanced knowledge of shipbuilding and navigation techniques.
The ships held remains of warriors equipped with swords, gaming pieces, and decorated bronze fittings that reveal how people of this time honored their dead and the important role warriors held in their community.
The site is accessible during spring months when archaeological work takes place and researchers examine wood samples and construction techniques. It is best to check ahead about current excavation seasons, as access may be limited.
The skeletal remains show evidence of battle injuries, including one warrior with fused neck vertebrae, and a gaming piece was placed in his mouth. These details suggest how burial rituals reflected the stories of individual people.
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