Archaeologists unearth fresh evidence of Neolithic cannibalism

Archaeologists have discovered human remains from 11 individuals at El Mirador Cave in Spain that provide compelling evidence of cannibalistic practices. A recent study published in the journal Scientific Reports suggests that this act may have stemmed from a violent clash between rival herding communities during the Late Neolithic period, approximately 5,700 years ago. Co-author Palmira Saladié, a researcher affiliated with IPHES-CERCA and the Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), remarked on the complexities surrounding the interpretation of cannibalism. "Understanding the act of humans consuming other humans is inherently challenging," she stated. Saladié also noted the societal biases that often label such acts as barbaric, making it difficult to grasp the cultural context surrounding them. The El Mirador Cave is part of the renowned Sierra de Atapuerca archaeological site in northern Spain, where previous findings have also indicated cannibalistic behaviors. Notably, remnants of six individuals from the Early Bronze Age were found, including skull caps that might have been used in ceremonial practices. Since 1994, over 160 bone fragments from the Aurora Stratum (TD-6) in the Gran Dolina cavern have been unearthed, with more than 30 percent showing signs of butchering, such as slice, scrape, and chop marks. In this latest research, a meticulous analysis of 5,056 human remains from two areas of El Mirador Cave was conducted using microscopy. Eight samples were chosen for radiocarbon dating, ensuring representation across stratigraphic levels, while five bones underwent strontium isotope testing. The findings highlighted clear marks indicative of butchering and consumption, along with evidence of cremation and disarticulation of the bodies, suggesting that the victims were skinned, their flesh removed, and subsequently cooked. Radiocarbon dating placed these events between 5,700 and 5,570 years ago. Isotope analysis revealed that the individuals were likely local and consumed within a few days. While distinguishing between cannibalistic behavior and other possible explanations is challenging, the authors deliberated on alternative theories. They noted that funerary rituals might involve similar marks, but such practices typically affect only a small percentage of remains, and injuries from weaponry would mostly be found on specific areas like ribs and vertebrae.