Ancient Europeans ate the brains of their dead enemies 18,000 years ago, researchers discover [View all]

By Kristina Killgrove
published 2 days ago

A study of skeletons from a cave in Poland has revealed widespread evidence of cut marks and fractures suggestive of cannibalism.

Human remains discovered in a cave in Poland have revealed that ancient European groups cannibalized the dead in an act of war. A new analysis of cut marks and fractures on the bones suggest people removed the ears and scooped out the brains of their vanquished enemies shortly after they died.

In a study published Thursday (Feb. 6) in the journal Scientific Reports, researchers detailed the evidence of cannibalism they found on 53 bones from Maszycka Cave, an archaeological site near Krakow, Poland. The bones were dated to 18,000 years ago, during the Magdalenian period of European prehistory, and came from at least 10 people: six adults and four children.

Using advanced 3D microscopy techniques, the researchers identified cut marks and fractures on 68% of the bones and were able to rule out carnivorous animals and accidental trampling as causes for the injuries.

More:
https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/ancient-europeans-ate-the-brains-of-their-dead-enemies-18-000-years-ago-researchers-discover