Sweden’s Medieval Graves Placed Children With Unrelated Adults, Including Infant Girls Buried Among Men

Ancient DNA analysis reveals that medieval Swedish burial practices often placed children alongside unrelated adults of the same sex, rather than close biological relatives. This practice included infant girls being buried among men. The findings challenge traditional assumptions about family structures and suggest that community and social ties might have played a significant role in these burial practices. Understanding these historical practices provides valuable insight into the social dynamics and cultural norms of medieval Sweden.