Archaeological Discovery: 5,000 Year Old Scottish Tomb Unveils Fourteen Ancient Skeletons
2 min read
More than a dozen ancient human remains have been unearthed from a 5,000-year-old tomb in Scotland, during an excavation on the Orkney Islands. The remarkable findings, which include at least 14 sets of human remains, are considered rare and are believed to date back to the Neolithic period.
The excavation was led by Dr Hugo Anderson-Whymark, a Scottish curator, who described the tomb as a new Maes Howe-type passage grave. The surprising discovery was much larger than anticipated, measuring almost 50 feet in diameter. Access to the stone structure was granted through a 20-foot-long passage.
Inside the tomb, the skeletons of men, women, and children were found. Among them, two were discovered in an embracing position, adding a touch of sentimentality to this ancient burial site. It is speculated that DNA analysis may be conducted to determine if the individuals buried in the tomb were related or linked to other Orkney tombs used over generations.
This tomb, which almost went unnoticed, is considered an impressive monument. Unfortunately, much of it was on the brink of being lost without record. Nevertheless, enough stonework has survived for experts to understand its size, form, and construction.
The significance of this discovery lies in its potential to shed light on the lives and traditions of the Neolithic community that resided on the Orkney Islands. The careful examination of these ancient remains and the analysis of any artifacts found within the tomb will likely provide valuable insights into the culture, social structure, and burial practices of the time.
The excavation has garnered attention from archaeologists and history enthusiasts alike. The findings have sparked curiosity and excitement, as they add another layer to the already fascinating history of the Orkney Islands. As further analysis progresses, the discoveries from this 5,000-year-old tomb could rewrite our understanding of Scotland’s ancient past.
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