Researchers have discovered evidence of cannibalism among ancient European groups 18,000 years ago. A study published Thursday found that human remains from a cave in Poland showed cut marks and fractures consistent with the removal of brains and other body parts. The bones dated to the Magdalenian period were analyzed using advanced 3D microscopy techniques, which ruled out animal causes for the injuries.
Skull fragments revealed cuts made from scalping, defleshing, and removing the ears and jaw. Fractures along cranial sutures suggested that people broke skulls to remove brains. This behavior was not related to survival needs but may have been linked to war or ritual practices.
The location and frequency of cut marks suggest nutritional exploitation of the bodies, while the pattern of cuts and fractures indicates prioritization of the most nutritious parts, such as brain, bone marrow, and muscles. Archaeological evidence from Maszycka Cave suggests that cannibalism was a widespread practice among ancient Europeans during this time period.
Further study is needed to determine the reasons behind this behavior, but researchers believe it may have been linked to territorial tensions and violent struggles for resources in the Magdalenian period. Other European sites dating to the same time also show evidence of cannibalism, suggesting that the practice was an important part of ancient culture.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/archaeology/ancient-europeans-ate-the-brains-of-their-dead-enemies-18-000-years-ago-researchers-discover