Archaeologists uncover ancient skeleton made from bones of multiple individuals in Belgium

smithsonianmag.com

Archaeologists in Belgium have discovered a skeleton made from the bones of at least eight individuals, dating from the Neolithic period to the Roman era. This finding, from a cremation cemetery in Pommerœul, challenges previous assumptions about the burial. Originally thought to be a typical Roman burial, further analysis revealed the skeleton includes bones from multiple generations, with the oldest dating back about 4,445 years. A Roman skull from the third or fourth century C.E. was also found among the remains. Researchers suggest that Gallo-Roman groups may have disturbed the earlier burial, possibly adding the Roman skull to the mix. The careful arrangement of the bones indicates a deliberate effort to create a composite skeleton, reflecting complex burial practices over time.


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