Recent findings from an archaeological site in Finland have unearthed remains that may belong to a prominent leader from over a millennium ago. Intriguingly, there is a possibility that this individual might have been non-binary.
For ages, the roles and perceptions of gender have intrigued scholars studying ancient civilizations. This particular grave offers a fresh perspective, suggesting that individuals beyond the binary gender norms not only existed but also held significant status in their communities.
The DNA analysis of these ancient remains pointed towards a potentially high-ranking, non-binary person. While archaeologists are still piecing together the narrative, the discovery that the grave contained only one body has brought new insights.
The remains were initially discovered during construction work in 1968. Within the grave, fragments of garments, jewelry, and other artifacts indicated that the deceased was dressed in the fashion typical of women during that era.
Intriguingly, a sword without a hilt was found in the grave, accompanied by another laid above, traditionally symbols of masculinity.
Leading the research, Ulla Moilanen noted, “The person buried appeared to have been greatly revered within their community.
“They were placed in the grave with precious furs, on a feather-stuffed blanket, and with significant objects.”
Initially, it was thought that the grave held two bodies—a man and a woman—possibly indicating female leadership in medieval Finland.
However, advanced DNA tests confirmed the grave contained a single individual with Klinefelter syndrome, a genetic condition where a male is born with an extra X chromosome.
This syndrome, affecting about one in 660 men, often goes unnoticed. Genetically male, those with the condition may have slightly different physical characteristics, including smaller reproductive organs, lower sexual drive, infertility, and larger breast tissue.
It’s uncertain if the DNA findings stemmed from a limited sample or required modeling to achieve. The body likely had an XXY chromosome pattern, and given the elaborate burial, the deceased might not have conformed to traditional gender classifications.
Moilanen elaborated that the individual “might not have been considered strictly male or female in the medieval community. The rich assortment of items buried with them highlights a community’s acceptance and respect for the individual.”
