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27,500-Year-Old Teen's Death: Bear Attack Solved
12 Feb
Summary
- Paleolithic teen's remains show signs of severe trauma.
- A large carnivore, most likely a bear, is blamed.
- The teen received an elaborate burial despite injuries.
Archaeologists have solved the 27,500-year-old mystery behind the death of a Paleolithic teenager, known as 'The Prince,' whose remains were discovered in Italy. His skeleton exhibited significant trauma to the collarbone, jaw, shoulder, and arm, with clear signs of an incision on his skull.
New analysis suggests the youth fell prey to a large carnivore, with a bear attack being the most plausible explanation. He likely survived his injuries for two to three days, enduring prolonged agony before succumbing to organ failure or internal bleeding. Previous injuries to his feet may have prevented him from escaping the predator.
Remarkably, despite his violent death, the teenager received an elaborate burial, adorned with ivory pendants, shell decorations, and other artifacts. This suggests the burial may have been a ritual to acknowledge his exceptional suffering rather than an indication of elite status.
