Unearthing the Mystery: Seated Gauls Found in Dijon
A primary school in eastern France was surprised to find a skeleton sitting upright in a circular pit near their playground. This discovery is part of a series of bodies found in Dijon, buried in a seated position facing west. Scientists are puzzled by this burial practice and are investigating whether the individuals were buried alive. The well-preserved skeleton was found next to the Josephine Baker primary school, similar to four others unearthed earlier this month in the same area.
The skeletons, including the latest discovery, were all seated upright at the bottom of one-meter-wide pits with their hands resting in their laps. Their backs were against the eastern wall, facing westward. These bodies are believed to date back to around 300BC to 200BC, adding to the archaeological significance of Dijon as a special place for the Gauls, a Celtic group of people.
Dijon has been a focal point for Gaulish culture, with numerous discoveries of sitting Gauls in tombs over the years. The Gauls, who emerged in the fifth century BC, spread across modern-day France, Belgium, Switzerland, and beyond. The recent findings in Dijon shed light on this ancient culture, but many questions remain unanswered. The bodies found show signs of violence, with one having a fatal wound to the skull.
The skeletons, all men except for one child, were of varying heights and displayed well-preserved teeth and signs of osteoarthritis, indicating intense physical activity. Despite the lack of personal belongings or ornaments in the tombs, the discovery of these seated Gauls provides valuable insights into the ancient Gaulish settlement in Dijon. The reasons behind this unique burial practice remain a mystery, leaving archaeologists with more questions than answers.
In conclusion, the discovery of seated Gauls in Dijon adds to the rich archaeological history of the region, offering a glimpse into the mysterious burial practices of the ancient Gauls. The well-preserved skeletons found near the primary school highlight the importance of ongoing research to unravel the secrets of this ancient civilization.