Ancient grave in Siberia reveals secrets of Scythian elite
In Siberia, researchers have uncovered a burial mound estimated to be about 2,800 years old, leading them to some surprising conclusions. As explained in the scientific journal Antiquity, the remains found in the grave belonged to a member of the local elite. However, this individual wasn't buried alone. The grave contained the remains of 19 other beings. The Scythians, a mysterious people, similarly buried their rulers.
The burial mound discovered in Siberia included the remains of a member of the local elite, at least one sacrificed person, and 18 horses. According to researchers, this type of burial can be attributed to a culture closely related to the mysterious Scythians. These were Asian nomadic peoples mainly engaged in pastoralism and warfare.
Mysterious Siberian mound
Information about the warlike people known as the Scythians comes from non-written sources, chronicles, and archaeological research. Some records suggest that the Scythians were known for brutal customs. They reportedly made clothing and quivers from human skin, scalped their opponents, and drank the blood of their enemies. Additionally, they were famous for their ritual burials.
As reported by Live Science, the mound was found in Tuva, in southern Siberia, and was created during the transitional period between the Bronze Age and the Iron Age. This means it is one of the earliest known sites of its kind, most likely showcasing Scythian burial practices. The grave revealed human and animal remains, riding equipment, and artifacts decorated with animal motifs. According to experts, this indicates that the burial was carried out by a culture similar to the Scythians.
The Scythians are known for ritual burials
The research also highlights that the Scythians did not leave behind any written records. Instead, their legacy was mainly defined by people who encountered them, such as the Greek historian Herodotus, often called the father of history. He noted the elaborate, ritualistic burials of the Scythians, which included sacrifices, among them offerings in the form of servants and horses. The horses were to be stuffed and gutted, then supported by wooden structures along with human sacrifices, in such a way as to create the illusion of movement around the grave. This was a way to honour the death of their rulers.
