On the site of an ancient cemetery in central California, archaeologists have found evidence of macabre practices involving severed heads and polished skull caps.
While excavating a region of Marsh Creek in northern California, researchers found eight graves in which it appeared 'trophy heads' had been buried alongside the bodies of members of the community.
'Trophy heads' were taken by ancient warriors to celebrate victories and killings.
A further seven skeletons were found with their heads removed.
But rather than being used as trophies by warriors to take into the next world, analysis of the bones suggest the extra skulls may have belonged to the buried people's ancestors.
In fact, experts believe the skulls may have belonged to the mothers of the people in the graves:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencete...l-rituals.html
While excavating a region of Marsh Creek in northern California, researchers found eight graves in which it appeared 'trophy heads' had been buried alongside the bodies of members of the community.
'Trophy heads' were taken by ancient warriors to celebrate victories and killings.
A further seven skeletons were found with their heads removed.
But rather than being used as trophies by warriors to take into the next world, analysis of the bones suggest the extra skulls may have belonged to the buried people's ancestors.
In fact, experts believe the skulls may have belonged to the mothers of the people in the graves:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencete...l-rituals.html
Comment