Ancient Skulls Reveal Ritual Practices in Iron Age Spain
Recent examinations of prehistoric skulls from Iron Age Spain have unveiled intriguing insights into ancient ritual practices. Researchers discovered that these skulls, some with large iron nails driven through them, served dual purposes: honoring ancestors and intimidating foes. The findings, based on isotope analysis, indicate a mix of local and nonlocal individuals, suggesting a more complex selection and display process than previously understood.
Origins of the Severed Skulls
A study published in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports investigated seven skulls from two archaeological sites along the southeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula. Researchers employed strontium isotope analysis to trace the geographical origins of these individuals. This method measures the strontium absorbed during a person’s growth, which reflects the environmental characteristics of their region.
Lead author Ruben de la Fuente-Seoane, an archaeologist at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, noted that the analysis yielded varying results across the two sites. At Puig Castellar, three out of four skulls were identified as nonlocal, while at Ullastret, only one of three skulls came from outside the community. These findings suggest that the ritual practices associated with these skulls may have had different meanings and purposes depending on their location.
Placement of Skulls Indicates Purpose
The positioning of the skulls at each site provides further insight into their intended functions. At Puig Castellar, the nonlocal skulls were found near outer walls, indicating they were likely displayed as warnings or symbols of dominance over outsiders. Conversely, at Ullastret, the local skulls were located within dwellings, suggesting they were used to honor significant community members.
Historical accounts from Greek and Roman writers reference similar practices, including the preservation of severed heads by Gauls and the display of impaled enemy heads by Iberian mercenaries. While this study highlights the distinctions in the use of these skulls, researchers emphasize that additional analysis is necessary to fully grasp the complexities of these ancient rituals.
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