Ancient Roman Tomb Holds Surprising Secrets

Scientists have scanned an ancient Roman tomb at the Yorkshire Museum and created a 3D model, revealing unusual burial details.

Multiple Bodies Found in One Coffin

Phys.org notes that usually the coffin contains the body of one person, but several people were placed in this coffin - two adults and a child who died at the same time.

Unusual Rituals Surrounding the Burial

The ceremony of their burial included unusual rituals, the bodies, along with clothes and shoes, were placed in a coffin, and then poured with a plaster solution. Of course, over time, the remains and clothing decomposed. But the gypsum retained its characteristics, which helped scientists create a detailed 3D model.

Small Details Revealed Through 3D Scanning

The scan revealed the smallest details of the original burial. For example, scientists noticed the presence of ribbons that tied a shroud on the head of the deceased, and pieces of cloth that were around the child’s body.

Archaeologist Hails Stunning Results

According to archaeologist Lucy Crichton, the scan results are stunning. “The results show a tragedy that happened in York 1,600 years ago,” she says.

Mystery Surrounding Gypsum Solution

Archaeologists still do not know why the gypsum solution was poured into the bodies. This may be a burial rite for people of high social status, since similar graves have already been found in Europe and North Africa. They also found 45 similar graves in York.

Conclusion

The 3D scanning of the ancient Roman tomb has revealed previously unknown details about the burial practices of the time. The discovery of multiple bodies in one coffin and the use of a plaster solution are particularly fascinating. The mystery of the gypsum solution continues to puzzle archaeologists, but the discovery of similar graves in other parts of the world may provide clues for further investigation.

Source: News