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Viking Skull Reveals Ancient Surgery Amid Mass Grave

2/4/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Viking-era skull from a training dig at Wandlebury, England, dating to the 9th century AD, is believed to be the oldest evidence of trepanation.
The skull bears a three-centimeter hole likely made to relieve headaches from a tumor affecting growth hormones.
The excavation uncovered a mass grave with complete and dismembered remains, implying battle or mass execution, according to Dr. Oscar Aldred.

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Story summary

Viking-era skull from a training dig at Wandlebury, England, dating to the 9th century AD, is believed to be the oldest evidence of trepanation.
The skull bears a three-centimeter hole likely made to relieve headaches from a tumor affecting growth hormones.
The excavation uncovered a mass grave with complete and dismembered remains, implying battle or mass execution, according to Dr. Oscar Aldred.