800-year-old 'hugging skeletons' are genetically confirmed as Poland's only medieval same-sex double burial
A recent DNA analysis has confirmed that two skeletons found in an embrace in Poland are women, marking the first known same-sex double burial from medieval times in the country. The skeletons were discovered during excavations at a 13th-century cathedral, raising questions about their relationship. Researchers utilized advanced genetic techniques to analyze the remains, revealing they were not genetically related.
- ▪The skeletons were uncovered at the Cathedral of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross in Opole, Poland, between 2022 and 2025.
- ▪One skeleton was buried according to Christian rites, while the other was positioned in an embrace.
- ▪This burial is the first known same-sex double burial in medieval Poland.
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Archaeology 800-year-old 'hugging skeletons' are genetically confirmed as Poland's only medieval same-sex double burial Two skeletons found in an embrace next to a 13th-century Polish cathedral were both women, an ancient DNA analysis confirms, but their relationship remains a mystery. By Sandee Oster published 21 May 2026 in News When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. The "hugging skeletons" in Opole, Poland, during excavation (top) and an unrelated burial (bottom).
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