In a startling discovery, remains found in Finland may be those of someone who lived more than 1000 years ago and was a leader in the community. They also feel that is possible he may have been non-binary.

Ancient societies and the associated gender roles have always been a matter of concern. This analysis of the grave, however, may suggest that non-binary individuals were not only members of the community, they were revered as well.

In DNA analysis of the remains, it was determined that the individual may have belonged to a high-status, non-binary individual. Archaeologists are still unsure about the nature of the remains but when the new DNA testing was confirmed that it only held one body, then more light was shed on the subject.

Building work taking place in 1968 first uncovered the remains. The grave contained fragments of clothing, jewelry, and other factors that showed the dead person had been dressed in a ‘typical feminine costume of the era.’ In the grave, there was also a hiltless sword, and another sword was buried above the original grave. These are often associated with masculinity.

According to Ulla Moilanen, the lead author of the study, “The buried individual seems to have been a highly respected member of their community. “They were laid in the grave on a soft feather blanket with valuable furs and objects.”