Evidence of neolithic cannibalism among farming communities at El Mirador cave, Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain.

ABSTRACT: In El Mirador cave in Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain, a unique collection of human remains provides insights into cannibalistic practices from the Neolithic to the Bronze Age. Six Early Bronze Age individuals (4600-4100 cal BP) showing signs of cannibalism were discovered in the early 2000s. Later excavations uncovered older remains with similar cultural modifications. A Bayesian statistical analysis of the radiocarbon dates identified a single earlier event (5709-5573 cal BP) unrelated to the Bronze Age finds. 87Sr/86Sr analysis showed the cannibalised people were of local origin. The episode coincided with the end of the Neolithic occupation, suggesting this was a not common behaviour among the cave inhabitants. Given the age of the cannibalised individuals and environmental conditions, the

SUBMITTER: Saladie P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12331932 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature