Skeletal Remains Identified as Norse Saga Figure

Recent DNA analysis of skeletal remains found in a well at Norway's Sverresborg castle has confirmed the identity of a man mentioned in the 800-year-old 'Sverris Saga', linking him to a historical event from 1197 where a body was thrown into a well to poison the water supply during an attack. The remains, discovered in 1938, have been dated to the same period as these events, indicating they belong to the so-called 'Well-man'. This research represents the first instance of a figure from Norse sagas being scientifically verified, utilizing modern genomic techniques not previously available. The findings challenge earlier assumptions regarding the man's origins, suggesting he may have southern Norwegian ancestry rather than being a local defender. The 'Sverris Saga' is considered a reliable historical source, with its narrative shaped during the reign of King Sverre Sigurdsson, and provides crucial insights into the political struggles of medieval Norway. Researchers aim to apply similar methods to uncover other historical figures' identities in the future.