Archaeologists uncover remains of 130 people beneath burned wooden church in northern Sweden

Excavations at the site of a destroyed 18th-century church in Övertorneå, northern Sweden, have revealed the graves of around 130 individuals, including two children, some dating back roughly 400 years, Yle reports.

Archaeologists from Sweden’s National Historical Museums discovered the remains while investigating the burned-down Hietaniemi Church site. Project leader Annika Nordström confirmed that the burials span the 17th and 18th centuries, linked to a chapel and a later church on the same grounds.

The two children’s remains have since been returned to Övertorneå for reburial by the local parish. Nordström noted that these are preliminary findings, with detailed analyses—including osteological studies, chemical testing, and DNA research—still underway.

Insights into historical life
Researchers aim to determine the origins, familial relationships, and health conditions of the buried individuals. Chemical and DNA testing may also reveal dietary habits, disease prevalence, and burial customs of the era.

“This gives us a unique picture of life in the Torne Valley during the 1600s and 1700s—details not found in written records,” Nordström said.

Final results will be published on the museum’s website and in scientific reports by next winter.

Rebuilding plans
The 18th-century church and its bell tower were destroyed in a 2023 fire, sparking local grief over the loss of a nearly 300-year-old cultural landmark. Övertorneå Parish now plans to rebuild, with construction bids under review and a contractor decision expected by May 2025. If schedules hold, work could begin as early as May–June 2026.