A number of rusty nails were also collected from the scene, suggesting the stacked skeletons were initially buried in a wooden box. The rare discovery lies just outside the grounds of Batistein Castle, leading archaeologists to believe these may have been more skeletons hidden in the area.

The remains were discovered last week on Friday, with nine skeletons confirmed by the evening. However, archaeologists returned to the grounds over the weekend to find 11 more – bringing the total to 20.

Allowances Christa Hendriksen, one of the archaeologists, expressed “astonishment” at both the discovery and the fact that the corpses were found outside Batistein Castle. The structure was built in the 14th century and was plagued.

In 1567, the surrounding town and castle were overrun by the Spanish Army. For more than a century later, fireworks spoke of a large fire inside the castle’s walls and due to financial problems, it was never rebuilt.

The large keep was torn down in 1771, and the rest of the castle followed in 1828 through 1829. The only things left at present of the castle are part of the decorative gate, called the Hof or Bosch Gate, and some connecting wall parts. The former castle terrace is now built over with houses.