Researchers have unearthed the skeletal remains of Queen Elisenda, one of medieval Europe's most influential rulers, at the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria Pedralbes in Barcelona. The discovery was part of an excavation marking the monastery's 700th anniversary. Experts opened eight 14th-century graves, revealing 25 individuals inside.
The find sheds new light on Elisenda's life and death, as well as burial practices of the era. She was a key political figure who wielded significant power during her reign. The graves included several other bodies with unexplained stab wounds, raising questions about violence or ritual practices.
All 25 skeletons were carefully studied by the team, though specific details about their health or cause of death have not yet been released. The presence of stab wounds on multiple individuals is described as puzzling by researchers. Further analysis may clarify whether these injuries occurred before or after death.
The excavation provides a rare glimpse into medieval nobility and monastic life in 14th-century Catalonia. Future studies could explore connections between the wounded individuals and the queen's household. The findings have already sparked interest among historians and archaeologists across Europe.
Additional research is needed to confirm the identity of all individuals and the nature of the wounds. The team plans to publish more detailed results in a peer-reviewed journal.