Looking good for his age! Face of a priest who died 900 years ago is recreated after his remains were found buried in Lincoln Cathedral

• The man died approximately 900 years ago and was uncovered with a pewter chalice and plate used to hold Eucharistic wine and bread similar to other burials
• The facial reconstruction techniques used result in an image that could be recognised by friends of the person but the colour of the hair and eyes is a guess
• The archaeological dug was funded by the National Lottery and includes the delivery of vital restoration and renovation works to the iconic Lincoln Cathedral

The excavation of a burial site for clergymen at Lincoln Cathedral has allowed experts to uncover the face of a medieval priest. 

The man died approximately 900 years ago and was uncovered with a pewter chalice and plate used to hold Eucharistic wine and bread.

Similar objects have been found in other 12th and 13th centuries gravesites. 

Analysis of the skeleton has confirmed that the priest was a male, around 169cm tall and died between the ages of 35 and 45 years old.

Inverness-based forensic artist Hew Morrison, then used Allen Archaeology's measurements and photographs of the skull, to create a lifelike reconstruction of the priest's face.  

The priest's excavation was carried out by Lincoln-based Allen Archaeology Ltd as part of the Lincoln Cathedral Connected project to enable drainage works and landscaping around the Cathedral. 

Studies have shown that the facial reconstruction techniques used result in an image that could be recognised by those who knew the person. 

The features of the priest's skull such as his close-set eyes and slightly asymmetrical chin are taken from the measurements of the skull and are accurate. 

Without the availability of DNA testing, however, the colour of the hair and eyes can only be an educated guess.  

Other interesting  finds from the skeleton showed that the priest had suffered from barely any disease or injury during his life, with the exception of bruising an small deposits of mineralised dental plaque. 

The natural wear and tear on the discs of his lower spine show that the priest was involved in a degree of physical activity, and were typical of someone of that age. 

His remains also suggest that he was well nourished and had a risk-free lifestyle.

The Revd Canon, John Patrick, Subdean of Lincoln, said: 'These excavation findings are truly captivating and the historical insights we gain are testament to the rich history of the religious site.' 

During the excavation, many other fascinating artefacts were found which are currently dated and cataloged. 

They will then be displayed as part of the new Lincoln Cathedral visitor centre. 

Senior manager at Allen Archaeology, Natasha Powers, said: 'This burial is just one of the fascinating discoveries that our team has made during the Cathedral Connected project. 

'We have revealed new evidence of Roman, Saxon, medieval, Tudor and Victorian activity within the site, and full analysis of the 50 or so burials that have been unearthed will provide us with a window into understanding the lives of the medieval population of Lincoln.'

The project is funded by the National Lottery and includes the delivery of vital restoration and renovation works to the iconic Lincoln Cathedral which are due to be completed in 2022. 

These works will also include a new visitor centre displaying the artifacts found.