Analysis of nearly 1,000 human remains found in the Malalmuerzo, Carigüela, and Majólicas caves has for the first time allowed precise dating and shown that cases of human consumption occurred at different times and under various social circumstances.
One of the most striking cases was found in the Malalmuerzo cave. Researchers believe that around 5000 BC, a collective violence episode may have occurred here, after which the bodies of the deceased were consumed.
More than half a century after these archaeological sites became important objects of prehistoric cannibalism research, an international team of scientists re-examined the remains. The researchers used radiocarbon dating and new taphonomic analysis methods.
The results show that Neolithic cannibalism on the Iberian Peninsula was not an isolated phenomenon. Such practices recurred at different times and under various social circumstances, and similar evidence has been found in other European regions.
The study was published in the Journal of Archaeological Science. It involved scientists from universities and research centers in Spain, Austria, Brazil, and Argentina.
Traces of cannibalism – in three caves of Granada
Scientists examined nearly 1,000 human remains, looking for signs of deliberate bone processing. Cut marks, fractures, and tooth marks were analyzed under a microscope, while statistical analysis, machine learning, and direct radiocarbon dating helped determine when and how the remains were affected.
Signs associated with cannibalism were found in all three caves – cut marks, heating, and bite marks – but each site tells a different story.
Signs associated with cannibalism were found in all three caves – cut marks, heating, and bite marks.
The Malalmuerzo cave showed signs of violence, Carigüela revealed that such practices recurred here and also showed distinctive treatment of human skulls, while Majólicas provided evidence of possible ritual practices.
For decades, prehistoric cannibalism was often viewed as a homogeneous phenomenon. However, the new study shows that seemingly similar practices could reflect completely different social circumstances. To understand their significance, it is necessary to consider the chronology of the remains, the archaeological context, and the traces preserved in the bones together.
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Malalmuerzo cave – possible traces of massacres and cannibalism
The Malalmuerzo cave provided one of the most impressive results of the study. The remains suggest that around 5000 BC, a collective violence episode may have occurred here. People of different ages may have been involved, and later their bodies were consumed as food.
Newly established dates in the Carigüela cave revealed several episodes of cannibalism occurring during different Neolithic periods. Among the most unusual finds are two skulls modified to be used as containers.
The most recent episode was recorded in the Majólicas cave, around 3800 BC. This case apparently was not related to violence. Some bones painted red with cinnabar lead scientists to consider possible ritual practices.
Neolithic cannibalism recurred in different parts of Europe
The three sites in Granada fit into a broader phenomenon observed in Europe. It is believed that Neolithic cannibalism was not a constant practice – it was more common during certain periods and in specific regions.
Most cases of anthropophagy were identified in three periods: the end of the 6th millennium BC, the middle of the 5th millennium BC, and the end of the 3rd millennium BC. The latter period already belongs to the Bronze Age.
Although the researchers did not identify a single cause that could explain all these cases, they believe that episodes of cannibalism may have been related to changes in social organization, relationships between different groups, and how death and violence were perceived at the time.
New methods revealed secrets of remains excavated decades ago
The study also highlights the scientific value of historical archaeological collections. Modern research methods allow obtaining new information previously impossible about remains excavated several decades ago.
Among the authors of the study is Miguel C. Botella, who at the time headed the Forensic Archaeology Laboratory at the University of Granada. His work was crucial in studying these remains.
“His work helped the Malalmuerzo, Carigüela, and Majólicas sites become important objects of European late prehistoric cannibalism research,” says study author Francesc Marginedas.
