The first known Carpathian burial of a woman with a weapon dating back 1000 years was found in Hungary. Photo
In eastern Hungary, the first known Carpathian burial of a woman with a weapon dating back 1000 years was found. In the cemetery next to the remains was a complete set of archer's equipment – a bow, arrows, and a quiver.
This is the first known burial of this type since the Hungarian conquest of the Carpathian region in the 10th century. This discovery may force us to reconsider the role of women in medieval Europe, PLOS ONE writes.
Skeletal remains found in the grave
Source: Luka Kis/plos.org
The weapon in the cemetery was lying next to the woman's left hand, which is consistent with similar male burials from the period, historians say.
However, analysis of the skull bones, as well as DNA analysis from the teeth, temporal, and humerus bones, indicated that the remains belonged to a female. A detailed examination of the bones indicated that the woman died at an older age. Scientists found signs of regular physical activity and traces of several injuries on the bones, which is typical for horsemen and archers.
Skull parts used for sex determination, showing female characteristics.
Source: Luka Kis/plos.org
Although the researchers cannot say for sure whether the buried woman was a warrior or wielded weapons for her own defense, the discovery changes the understanding of the role of women among early Hungarians and Europeans in general, experts say.
The study also emphasizes the importance of combining different scientific tools, such as bone structure and DNA analysis, to draw correct conclusions about the lives of people who lived centuries earlier.
Artifacts found in the tomb: an arrowhead, a bell button, a silver half-fingered hair clip, and more.
Source: Luka Kis/plos.org
Interestingly, in addition to weapons, archaeologists found typically female jewelry – silver hair rings and necklaces.
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