An archaeological discovery in the Spanish Pyrenees reveals a violent episode dating back 4,000 years. A fragment of a human rib, pierced by a flint arrowhead, bears witness to an attack that nevertheless wasn't fatal.
Excavations at the Roc de les Orenetes site uncovered over a thousand human bones. Among them, a rib bearing an arrowhead, evidence of a healed wound indicating the victim survived this assault. This find provides unique insight into interpersonal conflicts during the Bronze Age.
A human rib with a flint arrowhead found in a cave in Spain.
Credit: IPHES (Catalan Institute of Human Paleoecology and Social Evolution)
Analysis revealed the individual was struck from behind, suggesting a possible ambush. Researchers estimate this attack occurred approximately 4,100 to 4,500 years ago. The presence of similar injuries on other skeletons indicates recurring violence in this mountainous region.
The study published in the
American Journal of Biological Anthropology in 2024 details the excavation findings. Archaeologists identified signs of violence on several skeletons, including one case of amputation. These discoveries show the frequency of conflicts during this period, even in isolated areas.
The wounded rib will undergo thorough analysis, including X-ray microtomography. These examinations could provide additional information about living conditions and causes of death of those buried in this cave. Researchers hope to better understand the social dynamics of the time.
How do archaeologists determine the age of bones?
Archaeologists use carbon-14 dating to estimate the age of bones. This method measures the remaining amount of carbon-14 in organic samples.
Carbon-14 dating is based on the radioactive decay of this isotope. The older the sample, the less carbon-14 it contains.
This technique is particularly useful for periods up to 50,000 years. It allows events to be placed within a precise chronological framework.
The results are then compared with other archaeological data to reconstruct the history of excavated sites.
What is X-ray microtomography?
X-ray microtomography is a non-destructive imaging technique. It produces three-dimensional images of the inside of objects.
This method is particularly useful in archaeology for studying bones without damaging them. It reveals details invisible to the naked eye. Microtomography uses X-rays to scan the object from different angles. The data is then processed to reconstruct a 3D image.
This technique provides valuable information about injuries, diseases, and even the diets of ancient populations.