New research from Poland’s Maszycka Cave has shed new light on the cannibalistic practices of the Magdalenian people around 18,000 years ago. The study found evidence of whole-body manipulation for consumption, including eating brains, which was previously debated among researchers.
Using advanced 3D microscopy techniques, a team of international researchers analyzed 63 human bone fragments and discovered marks of human manipulation on 68% of the bones, including cut marks and intentional fractures related to human consumption. The analysis revealed that the bodies were processed shortly after death, with skulls showing signs of scalp removal and long bones featuring fractures that would allow for marrow extraction.
The study suggests that cannibalism may have been an integral practice for Magdalenian groups, possibly in response to survival needs or ritual practices. Researchers believe that competition for resources following the Last Glacial Maximum may have intensified conflicts between people groups, leading to war cannibalism. The findings support previous studies and provide evidence of cannibalism as a regional cultural practice during this period.
This is not the first study on cannibalism among ancient humans, but it does add new insights into the practices of the Magdalenian people. The research team’s findings have implications for our understanding of human evolution and cultural practices in prehistoric contexts.
Source: https://www.popularmechanics.com/science/archaeology/a63689871/human-brains-cannibalism