Archaeologists in Oslo’s Bjørvika district have unearthed nearly 3,000 medieval artifacts, providing a rare window into the daily life of the city’s inhabitants from 600 to 700 years ago. The majority of the finds consist of leather goods, including shoes, bags, and knife sheaths. This remarkable collection includes more than 40 pairs of children’s shoes, some tiny enough for toddlers, reflecting the personal belongings and customs of medieval Norwegians. The exceptional preservation of these artifacts offers crucial insights into craftsmanship, social status, and the high value placed on personal items.

The variety in the shoe collection ranges from simple low-cut styles to tall, decorative boots, highlighting the different footwear worn across social classes. Notable signs of wear, such as creased leather and repaired soles, suggest these shoes were highly valued possessions maintained over time. The presence of numerous children’s shoes also sheds light on medieval family life, a topic often overlooked in archaeological studies. Archaeologist Marja-Liisa Petrelius Grue from the Norwegian Maritime Museum indicated that these items were likely discarded near the Alna River after many years of use.

In addition to footwear, the archaeological team found at least 20 unique bag fragments, indicating that bags were customized for various uses. With no pockets in their clothing, medieval Norwegians relied on these leather bags to carry daily essentials. The discovery of knife and sword sheath fragments underscores the importance of personal knives, which served multiple purposes across all social strata. These insights into medieval Oslo’s development during the 13th and 14th centuries highlight significant urban growth and expanded trade connections.

The exceptional preservation of organic material like leather in an urban context is rare, making this find particularly valuable for understanding life in medieval European cities. This collection exemplifies the value and maintenance of personal belongings in pre-industrial societies, providing a deeper understanding of how ordinary people lived, worked, and expressed themselves through their material possessions.