DNA Test Awaited for Skeleton of a Musketeer Found in the Netherlands

Remains Potentially Belonging to d'Artagnan Discovered in Maastricht

According to Главком: A skeleton unearthed in a church in Maastricht, the Netherlands, could be that of the legendary musketeer, d'Artagnan. The discovery was made in February 2026 during renovation work when part of the church floor subsided near the Walder church in the Maastricht area. Archaeologist Wim Dijkman stated,

"I am being very cautious for now. Nothing so far contradicts the possibility that it could be him. But I am awaiting the results of the DNA analysis."

Charles Ogier de Batz de Castelmore, Comte d'Artagnan, died in 1673 during the Siege of Maastricht in the Franco-Dutch War. The skeleton was found with a musket ball in its chest and a French coin in the grave, prompting researchers to send DNA samples to a laboratory in Munich for comparison with a descendant of the musketeer. The real d'Artagnan was a historical figure whose life was famously fictionalized in Alexandre Dumas's 1844 novel, 'The Three Musketeers'.

Historical Significance of the Discovery

D'Artagnan, known as a count and the right-hand man of King Louis XIV, commanded the Musketeers. Deacon Jos Valk noted the skeleton's placement, stating,

"The skeleton lay where the altar once stood. In those times, only royal or other important persons were buried beneath the altar."

These findings could significantly alter the historical understanding of this prominent figure. The awaited DNA results may confirm or refute the hypothesis.

The potential identification of d'Artagnan's remains opens new avenues for studying 17th-century history and the life of this legendary character. If DNA analysis confirms the identity, it would be a major contribution to historical science and the cultural heritage of the Netherlands, highlighting the connection between historical events and literary legacy. Further research could shed light on d'Artagnan's personality and his role in the military conflicts of his era.