The Lost DNA

Secrets of the Grave

Fast forward to the Middle Ages, and a critical time in Europe’s history – the transition from paganism to Christianity. The records of the time give little information on the lives of ordinary people, but now DNA and other scientific techniques like palaeoecology, isotope analysis and osteo-archaeology are opening fascinating windows into the past. Evidence from burial sites in Ireland show that ancient pre-Christian beliefs continued long into the Christian era – including belief in the undead.