Recent research has revealed the earliest scientific evidence of the Black Death in Edinburgh, found on the remains of a teenage boy dating back to the 14th century. Analysis of plaque on his teeth showed the presence of pathogens related to the Bubonic plague.
The boy’s remains were originally unearthed in 1981 from the grounds of St Giles’ Cathedral. Thanks to modern techniques like ancient DNA sequencing, isotopic analysis, and radiocarbon dating, researchers were able to gather new insights. John Lawson, the City of Edinburgh Council’s curator of archaeology, described the discovery as “very exciting.”
This young male was not buried in a mass grave, which was common for plague victims at the time; instead, he was interred with care. The skeleton, dating from between 1300 and 1370—right in the midst of the Black Death period—was one of 115 bodies exhumed nearly 45 years ago to make way for access steps in the cathedral, located on the Royal Mile. The remains had been preserved in the city’s archives until recently.
This renewed examination of the medieval bodies was initiated as part of the Edinburgh 900 celebrations, marking the city’s 900th anniversary, with the cathedral itself dating back to 1124.
While the analysis is still ongoing, Lawson shared insights with BBC Scotland News, emphasizing the historical connection now established between this individual and the backdrop of the Black Death. He coordinated efforts with the Francis Crick Institute in London to perform DNA testing. “This teenager carries the ancient DNA of the Black Death, which is really exciting,” Lawson said, noting that bone samples alone wouldn’t have revealed such information.
Understanding the Black Death
The Black Death pandemic was principally caused by bubonic plague, stemming from the bacterium Yersinia pestis and marked by swollen lymph nodes known as “buboes.” The term “Black Death” likely comes from the discoloration of the skin due to gangrene in severe cases. This pandemic swept through Europe between 1347 and 1353, becoming one of the deadliest in history, with around 50 million lives lost.
During the excavations, five layers of graves were discovered, each representing about a century of history. Lawson noted that the analysis would enhance our understanding of this era significantly. Modern DNA techniques have been pivotal in uncovering details about the individuals buried there, including their origins, health, and diet.
Dr. Maria Maclennan, a senior lecturer at the Edinburgh College of Art, led a project for facial restorations of several skeletons. Notable among these was a 12th-century man and a woman from the 15th or 16th century, both of whom played a part in shaping the narrative of the city’s past. An exhibition titled “Edinburgh’s First Burghers: Revealing the Lives and Hidden Faces of Edinburgh’s Medieval Citizens” is currently showcasing five of these reconstructed faces until the end of November.
Additionally, Lawson mentioned that the research has also revealed where these medieval individuals were born, relying on chemical traces from local water sources. Preliminary findings suggest that most were from the Lothians, with a few originating from the Scottish Highlands.
Margaret Graham, convener for culture and communities at the City of Edinburgh Council, reflected on the significance of this research, stating it provides a more intimate glimpse into the lives of people who lived during this notable chapter in history. She expressed optimism for continued discoveries that will enrich the narrative of Edinburgh’s rich heritage.
