An archaeologist at Durham University has solved a decades-long mystery surrounding valuable Christian artifacts discovered in the River Wear in Durham, England.

Gary Bankhead, the archaeologist leading the investigation, has traced the collection of rare religious artifacts to Michael Ramsey, who served as Archbishop of Canterbury from 1961 to 1974. Ramsey was the senior bishop and principal leader of the Church of England during his tenure.

The artifacts, described as valuable Christian religious items, were found in the River Wear. According to the investigation, the items were deliberately placed in the waterway rather than accidentally lost.

Bankhead characterized the discovery as "exceptionally unusual," though the specific nature and number of artifacts have not been detailed in available reports. The mystery had persisted for decades before the connection to the former Archbishop was established.

The investigation represents a significant development in understanding how these religious treasures came to rest in the Durham river system. Michael Ramsey died in 1988, nearly four decades after completing his service as Archbishop of Canterbury.