Leiston Abbey Dog Skeleton Explores Myth and Archaeology

The Leiston Abbey dog skeleton is a fascinating find that has sparked debate among archaeologists and historians. The discovery of the skeleton was made in the 1960s, and it is believed to date back to the 13th century.

This dog skeleton is significant because it provides insight into the lives of people and animals in medieval England. The skeleton was found in a grave with a human, suggesting a close bond between the two.

The dog's age at death is estimated to be around 5-7 years old, based on the analysis of its teeth and bone structure. This is relatively young for a dog of the time period.

The discovery of the dog skeleton has also raised questions about the role of dogs in medieval society. Were they primarily working animals, or did they serve a more symbolic purpose?

The discovery of a large dog skeleton at Leiston Abbey has been a topic of interest for many. The skeleton was found to be approximately 28.5 inches tall at the shoulder, which is around the size of a large dog, not a 7ft tall dog as initially reported.

The dog's remains were discovered in 2014 by a member of the public, and archaeologists from DigVentures were involved in the excavation. The site was left almost untouched until last year, when site managers teamed up with DigVentures to run a community project.

Experts believe the dog could have weighed over 14 stone when it was alive, and pottery fragments found nearby were dated to the 1500s. This has led some to speculate that the dog's remains could be connected to the legend of Black Shuck, a ghostly black dog said to roam the coastline and countryside of East Anglia.

However, the evidence suggests that the dog is more likely to be a valued working dog or family pet, rather than a mythical creature. The dog's elderly age, worn teeth, and osteoarthitis support this theory.

Here are some key facts about the discovery:

The discovery of the dog skeleton has sparked interest in the history of Leiston Abbey and the surrounding area. The abbey is free to visit, and there will be free activities for people to take part in during and after the dig.

You might be wondering what's behind the eerie connection between the Leiston Abbey dog skeleton and Black Shuck, the infamous ghost dog of East Anglia.

Black Shuck is said to haunt the Norfolk coast, specifically the area around Bungay Church, where a large black dog is believed to have been seen in the 19th century.

This massive dog is often described as being as large as a calf, with glowing eyes and a blood-curdling howl.

Similarities between the Leiston Abbey dog skeleton and Black Shuck's description have led some to speculate about a possible connection between the two.

The Leiston Abbey dog skeleton is estimated to be around 800 years old, dating back to the 12th century, which is roughly the same time period when Black Shuck is said to have been seen.

The eerie coincidence has sparked curiosity among historians and paranormal enthusiasts alike, who are eager to uncover more about the possible link between the Leiston Abbey dog skeleton and Black Shuck.