Saxon Lyre

The Saxon lyre was an important musical instrument in early medieval England. It was commonly used by Anglo-Saxon musicians and poets to accompany songs, stories, and heroic poems. The instrument had a wooden body, usually with six strings stretched between two arms and a crossbar. Musicians played it by plucking or strumming the strings with their fingers. Lyres were often associated with feasts, royal halls, and important ceremonies. Archaeologists have discovered remains of lyres in Anglo-Saxon graves, including the famous Sutton Hoo burial. These discoveries show that music played an important role in Saxon culture, entertainment, and social life.