Human skeleton found in former UK shopping mall

Archaeologists examining the remains of a medieval monastery found beneath a former shopping center uncovered the skeletons of more than 240 people, including children. A "very important" discovery was made under the old Ocky White building in Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales, England.

 Archaeologists believe that the skeletons and ruins found belonged to the Monastery of the Holy Savior, which was founded by the Dominican order around 1256. According to one expert, the discovery opened "a window into medieval Haverfordwest". Ocky White was a popular shop for more than a century before its riverside building closed in 2013. Excavation project manager Andrew Shobbrook of the Dyfed Archaeological Trust described the abbey as the main complex of buildings containing a dormitory, a scriptorium - a room dedicated to writing and manuscripts, desks, and a hospital. "It's quite a prestigious place to be used as a graveyard. There are all kinds of people, from the rich to the ordinary townspeople," he said. It is believed that the tomb was used until the early 18th century. About half of the bodies found were children, which is said to reflect the high mortality rate at the time. An expert analyzed all the bones before burying them in a nearby sacred grave. Several bones show head injuries consistent with battle scars. According to Shobbrook, the wound could have been caused by an arrow or a bullet. One theory is that the casualties may have resulted from attacks by French and Welsh forces led by rebel leader Owain Glyndŵr. "We know that Owain Glyndr laid siege to the city at 1405 and they may become victims of conflict," Shobbrook said.

 After cleaning and drying, the bones and other finds, including plates, were stored in a nearby store that was no longer used. "Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would be involved in something this big," said archaeologist Gaby Lester. "This site is proving to be a huge part of the history of Haverfordwest and Pembrokeshire. "It can be a little overwhelming at times, but also humble enough to be a part of this person's journey." built from a former convent and a department store converted into a food court, on a rooftop bar with an open area.