Belonging to a king: archaeologists have uncovered a fragment of one of Scandinavia's most luxurious helmets (photo).

In the northwestern part of Zealand, Denmark, archaeologists have unearthed a rare fragment of a helmet. The artifact, discovered at the excavation site in Lillebro near the town of Lejre, dates back to the period between 650 and 750 AD, writes Arkeonews.

The fragment, made of gilded bronze and adorned with red garnets and intricate animal motifs, was once part of one of the most luxurious helmets in Scandinavia. This artifact, connected to both England and Sweden, showcases the complexity of the cultural and trade networks of that era.

Julie Nielsen, the archaeological director of ROMU (Roskilde Museum), explained the significance of the find: "Helmet fragments are incredibly rare in Denmark. This piece represents one of the most exquisite helmets of Scandinavia."

The helmet fragment consists of two pieces found together, forming a large part of the brow ridge. The artifact is embellished with gold and garnet, while the intricate patterns depict a creature with sharp teeth and large eyes, reflecting the artistic and cultural grandeur of the Germanic Iron Age.

"This helmet likely belonged to a king or a high-ranking member of society," Nielsen stated.

Interestingly, the purpose of the helmet was more ceremonial than combative. During this era, Lejre was a center for political, religious, and trade activities rather than conflicts. Nielsen noted that the dark red garnet symbolized strength and power, qualities attributed to the original owner of the helmet.

Similar fragments found in England and Sweden indicate Lejre's role in a significant network of trade and cultural exchange. Researchers from ROMU, the National Museum of Denmark, and Uppsala University have been meticulously studying the artifact.

John Ljungqvist, a senior researcher at Uppsala University, highlighted the unique design of the brow ridge, which differs from traditional designs by being crafted as a single piece. Ljungqvist compared this work to the famous Sutton Hoo helmet from England, emphasizing that creating such an object requires skill and resources.

The find will soon be displayed at the Lejre Museum during a special winter holiday exhibition, offering visitors a rare opportunity to see a piece of history that reflects the sophistication and connections of early Scandinavian society.

We also reported on the "rhinoceros" beneath the track. Archaeologists discovered a 1500-year-old Roman-era stone coffin weighing 750 kilograms.