Queen Elisenda's tomb yields ancient secrets

Archaeologists have uncovered the skeletal remains of Queen Elisenda of Montcada within the historic Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Pedralbes in Barcelona, marking the 700th anniversary of its founding in 1326. The excavation yielded 25 skeletons across eight tombs, including those of the queen, who was influential in medieval Aragon.

Queen Elisenda's tomb presented a unique arrangement, suggesting her dual role as queen and pious lady. Preliminary analysis indicates she died around age 70 from osteoarthritis. Fragments of golden embroidery and fragrant herbs were found with her remains, buried in a plain monastic robe.

Further surprising discoveries included the tomb of Abbess Sobirana Olzet, showing facial injuries, and another containing women and children. The tomb of Francesca Saportella, the queen's niece and second abbess, held multiple individuals, including four male skulls with stab wounds, raising questions about their demise.

One of the most perplexing finds was the partially mummified torso of a pregnant woman, estimated to be 20-23 weeks along, found alongside medieval documents and sheet music. Scientists plan further DNA analysis to confirm identities and explore ancient diseases. Full results are anticipated by mid-2027.