presents

One of the largest Viking hoards ever reported has been discovered at the bottom of Hogwarts’ Great Lake, the Wizarding Treasure Trove Unit at the British Museum has confirmed today. The treasure, made up of more than 80 objects in total, was found by students doing a extra-curricular exploration of the lake led by Care of Magical Creature Professor Tristan Wayland, and long term resident of the lake, Bartholomew Henry. Students spotted the treasure in a dark cavern, although were scared off by a clan of angry grindylows that had been disturbed with their presence. Staff later returned to retrieve the rest of the hoard, with Headmistress and Ancient Runes Professor Regina Hawthorne and Defence Against the Dark Arts Professor Roderik Hirsch declaring the items free of dark magic before turning it over to officials.

Michaela Irvine, head of the Treasure Trove Unit, described the find as “simply stunning,” comparing it to the famed “Galloway Hoard” discovered in nearby Dumfriesshire just over 80 years ago. Amongst the items were 53 coins of various origins, including not only Viking, but also Saxon, Islamic, Frankish and Arabic, and several silver ingots. Whilst further investigation needs to take place of the larger pieces, one of the highlights of the collection is a Celtic penannular brooch with a distinct symmetrical shape incorporating dog and bird ornamentations similar to those found in the Book of Kells. The style is a distinct contrast to a second silver brooch in the hoard, which is Viking in style and inscribed with gaunt, almost haunting faces.

It is not unusual for a hoard to contain objects from multiple cultures, Irvine said, adding that it added to an “intriguing tale of Viking movements as they traveled across Scotland.” Why the treasure was in a cave at Hogwarts remains an open question, but Headmistress Hawthorne hopes it will prove inspiring for students and provide them with a hands-on opportunity for further inquiry and critical thinking. “We hope that the hoard can be returned to Hogwarts after being assessed,” she said, “as a unique historical and cultural learning experience.”