University of Leicester
Human remains found in trench one of the Grey Friars dig, and identified as those of Richard III.
After rigorous DNA analysis, the University of Leicester confirmed Monday, Feb. 4, that the
From the University:
DNA from the skeleton matches two of Richard III’s maternal line relatives. The genealogy investigation verified the connection between these descendants and Richard III’s family.
The skeleton was likely to have been killed by one of two fatal injuries to the skull – one possibly from a sword and one possibly from a halberd. A total of 10 wounds were discovered on the skeleton.
King Richard III of England died in a battle during the War of the Roses in 1485. The body was believed to have been brought to Leicester, England, and buried in the church of the Franciscan Friary, or Greyfriars. But over time, the location of the church was lost, along with the king's remains. The discovery closes the chapter on a 500-year-old mystery.
The grave site was found under a city council parking lot in Leicester. Two fatal injuries to the skull are consistent with battle wounds. The skeleton also had a curved spine, which matches accounts that the king's right shoulder was higher than his left.
Researchers said they found no evidence of a withered arm, which is how the monarch was famously portrayed by William Shakespeare in the play "Richard III."
Here's a short video on the search for King Richard III: