Sixth-Century Sword Discovered in Kent Cemetery

Archaeologists unearthed a remarkable sixth-century sword from an Anglo-Saxon cemetery near Canterbury, England, described as one of the top echelons of swords, comparable to those found at Sutton Hoo. The sword features a silver-and-gilt hilt and runic inscriptions, with its pommel adorned by a ring possibly symbolizing an oath to a high-status individual. Accompanying the sword in the grave was a gold pendant likely belonging to a high-status woman, further indicating the wealth and significance of the burial. So far, twelve graves have been excavated, with estimates suggesting up to 200 more remain unexplored, prompting archaeologists to keep the excavation site confidential. Notably, the cemetery has revealed striking differences in artifacts between male and female graves, highlighting the societal roles of the period. These findings will be showcased in an upcoming BBC series, 'Digging for Britain'.