A scan of the great British playwright William Shakespeare's grave in his hometown has been carried out on the 400th anniversary of his death with findings to be revealed in the next few weeks.

As a part of a series of projects marking the 400th anniversary of the Bard's death, the grave scan at Holy Trinity Church in Stratford-upon-Avon, is expected to disclose the number of bodies and objects in the grave. It is believed that Shakespeare's family members, including his wife and children, were buried alongside him.

The reason for using modern technology, rather than excavating, is because it won't damage the grave, as Shakespeare warned on his epitaph: "Good friend, for Jesus' sake forebeare, To digg the dust enclosed heare; Bleste be the man that spares thes stones, And curst be he that moves my bones."

Shakespeare was buried in April 1616 and his grave has never been excavated since, local media said.

There are plenty of events, including performances, excavations, seminars, conferences and surveys taking place during this anniversary year in Stratford and London. Findings of Shakespeare's last home, New Place in Stratford, will also be published soon and the house will reopen to the public in July. Endit

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