This close-up photo shows one of the burials discovered in the tombs of Sweden. These burials are thought to have been made by Christianized Vikings, who lived around 1,000 years ago.In the Swedish town of Sigtuna, seven Viking tombs were discovered that contained well-preserved skeletons.Archaeologists found the remains of eight people, four adults and four kids aged 1,000 years inside the tombs. They were most likely Vikings who converted to Christianity. Johan Runer, a project manager at Uppdrag arkeologi (a cultural resource management company), said that the tombs' Christian nature was evident.Similar: Photos: A Viking tomb from the 10th century has been discovered in DenmarkRuner stated that most of the people were buried flat on their stomachs in an east-west orientation, while people who believed in traditional Viking beliefs in this region of Sweden preferred to be cremated.Image 1 of 3 Archaeologists discovered a stone cist in this tomb. (Image credit: Photo by Uppdrag Arkeologi. Image 2 of 3. Remains from a stone cairn found above this tomb. (Image credit: Image courtesy Uppdrag Arkeologi) Image 3 - This close-up photo shows one of the burials that was found in the tombs of Sweden. These burials are thought to have been made by Christianized Vikings, who lived around 1,000 years ago. (Image credit: Photo by Uppdrag ArkeologiAlso, they found charcoal deposits and partially burned caskets in some cases. This suggests that fire rituals were involved at least four burials. Runer explained to Live Science via email that such phenomena were quite common in Christian Viking period graves but previously very rare in Sigtuna.Four tombs had stone cairns on top. One of them was also surrounded by a stone-cist (stones placed in a box shape around it). Runer said that these features were not previously known from the town Sigtuna. He also noted that they are common in early Christian graves located in the area of Sweden, about 23 miles (37 km) northwest of Stockholm.Viking tragedyArchaeologists believe that one tomb could have twins. Runer stated that there were "two very small infants, seemingly of the same age" in one tomb. According to Runer, the team believes that this grave may be the result of a miscarriage between two twins.The tombs contained many interesting artifacts. Runer stated that one person was buried wearing a leather belt with fittings of silver-gilt and copper alloy. He also had silver coins in his mouth. He said that coin placement in the mouth of a person is a common practice in Viking period Christian burials in central Sweden. Runer stated that another tomb contained a "beautiful ornated bonecomb" in a case.The tombs were discovered by archaeologists in April as part of a survey of the area where a house was to be built. Archaeologists began excavating the site in May. They are still analyzing the skeletons as well as artifacts. In the fall, an osteologist will examine the well-preserved bones.Original publication on Live Science
