Ship Burials
Ship burials are ancient funerary practices where a deceased person is interred in a ship, either whole or in parts. This method was commonly used by cultures such as the Vikings and Anglo-Saxons, who believed that the ship would help the deceased navigate to the afterlife. The burial often included grave goods, such as weapons, jewelry, and tools, to accompany the individual in their journey.
These burials typically took place near coastlines or rivers, reflecting the importance of maritime culture in these societies. Archaeological sites, like the Oseberg and Gokstad ships in Norway, provide valuable insights into the customs and beliefs surrounding ship burials.