1st LD Writethru: Spain announces finding remains of 'Don Quixote' writer Cervantes

The remains of world famous Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes, the author of 'Don Quixote', have been found in Madrid, some 400 years after his death, forensic scientists announced on Tuesday.

The remains of Miguel de Cervantes were found in the church of Las Trinitarias located here, forensic scientists confirmed their discovery at a press conference.

Forensic anthropologist Francisco Etxeberria warned, however, that it was not possible to carry out a DNA examination which meant the discovery could not be proved with absolute certainty. However, the historical, archeological and anthropological research has led to the conclusion that some of Cervantes' remains are among those found in the church.

"There are many coincidences, no divergences," Etxeberria said.

Forensic scientists has been looking for the celebrated Spanish writer's remains since April 2014.

Researchers in January found fragments of a coffin with Cervantes' initials on it, but then as now, Etxeberria was careful to say that the evidence was preliminary. Cervantes' remains were found in the lowest level of burials along with the remains of his wife, Catalina de Salazar.

Cervantes was born near Madrid in 1547 and is one of Spain's most famous writers. He wrote 'The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha,' widely considered one of the world's greatest literary works and one of the most translated books into other languages.

The investigation coincides with the 400-year anniversary of the publication of the Don Quixote sequel in 1615. Endit