Graves of Lombard Kings Discovered in Pavia, Italy

Archaeologists have uncovered more than twenty early medieval tombs, including intricately designed brick structures and one with a painted red cross, in a courtyard near the Basilica of the Santissimo Salvatore in Pavia, Italy. These discoveries, made by researchers from the Catholic University, reveal graves of Lombard kings and royal court members, as well as Late Medieval monks.

The site also yielded evidence of reused tombs and artifacts, shedding light on burial practices spanning centuries.

Unique features of the tombs

The tombs, constructed with brick masonry, remain largely intact. Some feature flat tops, while others are gabled, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time.

One of the oldest tombs, distinct for its plastered surface and a painted red cross at the center, offers a glimpse into the burial customs of the early medieval period.

These burial spaces were often reused over time, which likely involved recovering valuable or symbolic items, explained Caterina Giostra, professor of medieval archaeology and director of the excavation.

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Late Medieval burials above the Lombard tombs

Researchers have identified a second layer of burials above the Lombard tombs. These simpler graves belong to monks from the Late Middle Ages, dating to a period when the site was transformed into a monastery.

The monastery was commissioned by Adelaide, wife of Holy Roman Emperor Otto I, further connecting the location to significant historical figures.

Although the area underwent changes in the 15th century with the construction of the current basilica, remnants of the monastery, including an underground passage linking the cellars to a central well, still remain.

The excavation was supported by a team of university students from the University of Milan, specializing in archaeology, cultural heritage, and art history.

Guided by three professionals, the students worked on recovering, cleaning, and cataloging bone remains. The professionals documented the site using drones and 3D photogrammetry to create detailed records.

Future analysis of bone remains

The bone remains will undergo further study in collaboration with the University of Milan and the Laboratory of Anthropology and Forensic Odontology.

Researchers plan to conduct anthropological and chemical tests on soil samples from the bones. Advanced archaeogenetic analysis will use ancient DNA to build profiles of the individuals, identifying their sex, diet, lifestyle, and any possible familial relationships.

Special attention will be given to determining whether those buried were local or had origins in Northern Europe, as seen in other Lombard sites across Italy, Giostra noted.

Connection to King Ariperto I of the Lombards

This site holds historical significance due to its connection to King Ariperto I of the Lombards. In the 7th century, he ordered the construction of a royal mausoleum in Pavia, the capital of the kingdom.

This monumental tomb served as a burial site for the king and his successors until the early 8th century. It was the first royal burial ground built within a church, breaking with the funerary traditions of Germanic peoples and marking a cultural shift toward Catholic customs.

Future plans include studying the northern part of the courtyard in 2025, continuing to reveal the rich history of this remarkable site.