Shakespeare’s skull may be missing from grave: scientists

Researchers used ground-penetrating radar to explore beneath the playwright’s tomb in Stratford-upon-Avon’s Holy Trinity Church

A March 9, 2009 file of a then newly discovered portrait of William Shakespeare, presented by the Shakespeare Birthplace trust, is seen in central London. Archeologists, who scanned the grave of the 'Bard of Avon,' made a shocking revelation: Shakespeare's skull appears to be missing.

Archaeologists, who scanned the grave of William Shakespeare, say they have made a startling discovery: His skull appears to be missing.

The researchers used ground-penetrating radar to explore beneath the playwright’s tomb in Stratford-upon-Avon’s Holy Trinity Church. Kevin Colls, who led the study, said the team found “an odd disturbance at the head end.”

Mr. Colls said: “It’s very, very convincing to me that his skull isn’t at Holy Trinity at all.”

But vicar of church unconvinced

But Patrick Taylor, vicar of the church, said he was not convinced there is “sufficient evidence to conclude that his skull has been taken.” He said there were no plans to disturb the grave to find out.