Skeletal remains of Queen Elisenda, one of the most powerful rulers in medieval Europe, unearthed in Barcelona — along with several others who bore unexplained stab wounds
Archaeologists in Barcelona have unearthed the skeletal remains of Queen Elisenda, a significant medieval ruler, along with 24 other individuals from 14th-century graves. The findings were part of a study commemorating the 700th anniversary of the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria Pedralbes. Notably, some remains showed signs of violent deaths, while Elisenda's burial indicated her dual roles as a sovereign and a penitent.
- ▪Queen Elisenda was the wife of James II of Aragon and Valencia and founded the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria Pedralbes.
- ▪Her remains were found in a wooden box, buried in austere clothing, alongside companions who had suffered violent deaths.
- ▪The excavation revealed the tombs of the monastery's first two abbesses and provided insights into the living conditions of the 14th-century female monastic community.
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Archaeology Skeletal remains of Queen Elisenda, one of the most powerful rulers in medieval Europe, unearthed in Barcelona — along with several others who bore unexplained stab wounds In honor of the 700th-anniversary founding of the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria Pedralbes in Barcelona, scientists opened eight 14th-century graves and studied the 25 people found inside, including a queen. By Kristina Killgrove published 29 May 2026 in News When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. The sarcophagus of Queen Elisenda in the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria Pedralbes.
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