Archaeologists have discovered an ancient tomb linked to the legend of the wizard Merlin

According to the medieval story Vita Merlini Sylvestris (The Life of Merlin of the Forest), Merlin was imprisoned and killed by the Dark Ages king, and his tomb is located by the banks of the River Tweed. This story has long been considered a myth, but recent archaeological research may shed light on the origins of the legend.

In 2022, a team of archaeologists and volunteers led by GUARD Archaeology began excavations to explore the archaeological roots of the local legend. Using geophysical surveys, they found evidence of an ancient burial site near the suspected site of Merlin's tomb.

During the excavation, traces of an ancient fortification were found at the top of Tinnis Hill, which rises above the tomb, which was used in the 6th to 7th centuries, the period when the events of the Arthurian cycle took place. This indicates that the hill may have been an important site for the nobility of the time.

This year, scientists explored a group of barrows on the opposite bank of the River Tweed and found a burial mound dating back to the late 6th century - which is how Merlin's burial site is described in ancient texts. The barrow, surrounded by older bronze graves, contained the remains of people of high status.

Although it cannot yet be confirmed for certain whether this burial is the grave of Merlin himself, this discovery adds a new layer to ancient lore. The connection to historical events suggests that the legends of Merlin may have had a real basis.

The Drumelsir Hidden Heritage Project was organised in collaboration with archaeologists, local groups and supported by a number of foundations.