Unauthorized Excavations Jeopardize Identification of Possible d'Artagnan Skeleton

In Maastricht, Netherlands, unauthorized excavations at the Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul church in the Wolder district have compromised the identification of a skeleton possibly belonging to Charles de Batz de Castelmore, known as d'Artagnan. Retired Dutch archaeologist Wim Dijkman was briefly detained in May 2026 for refusing to return bones he removed during digs conducted without official permission. The city of Maastricht confirmed the excavations violated standard archaeological protocols. The skeleton was discovered in February 2026 during floor renovations. Initial excitement linked it to d'Artagnan, who died at the 1673 Siege of Maastricht, based on research by French historian Odile Bordaz. However, a coin dated 1660 found nearby could not be associated with the burial, and oxidized iron fragments initially thought to be from a musket ball turned out to be a forged iron nail. Isotopic analysis suggests a diet inconsistent with a 17th-century Gascon, and carbon-14 dating gives a broad range of 1500–1900. French deputy Jean-René Cazeneuve mentioned possible transfer of remains to the Gers region if identification is confirmed, but acknowledged difficulty obtaining Dutch approval.