Archaeologists revealed Tuesday that the legend of Merlin and his death in Scotland may actually contain some truth.

According to legend, Merlin, King Arthur's faithful advisor, was imprisoned in Dolmeltsia during the Dark Ages and then killed and buried on the banks of the River Tweed. study The findings were published in the journal Archaeology Reports Online. Geological surveys had revealed the presence of a tomb-like pit in the area. When archaeologists began excavating, what they found was completely unexpected.

Excavations carried out at Fort Thinis, overlooking the area of ​​Merlin's Tomb at Durmerzier, have revealed that the site was inhabited during the legendary period (3rd to 6th centuries AD), when it joined the chain of Bronze Age ruins. Round Wheelbarrow (Mound built between 2200 BC and 1100 BC)

“Given that there are many hill forts in the region, most of which date to pre-Iron Age settlements, it seems like a remarkable coincidence that the hill fort associated with this local legend dates to the exact same period as the story is set in – hill forts from the post-Roman period in particular are extremely rare,” said Ronan Toolis, CEO of Guard Archaeology and project leader. said National.

While the find doesn't prove that the Merlin story is true, it does suggest that the legend originated in the region. “Perhaps it began as a folk memory and was embellished and spread widely over the centuries, changing almost beyond recognition,” Touris added. (Related: Archaeologists unearth 'mysterious' monolith at ancient temple)

While most people know Merlin as a famous and respected figure, his legend in Durmeltziar is quite different. Apparently he was just a pathetic man held captive by a mad tyrant, muttering “incomprehensible riddles and bewildering prophecies.” But wouldn't it be a bit crazy to be held captive by someone in the middle of Scotland?