Mexican archaeologists have uncovered a significant find while excavating the Moral-Reforma archaeological site near Tabasco, Mexico. They discovered 13 sets of remains buried just 40 feet from “Structure 18,” a pyramid-shaped monument situated south of the main temple. These skulls, believed to date between 600 and 900 BC, offer fascinating insights into ancient Mayan rituals and practices.
Evidence of Ritualistic Sacrifice
At least two of the skulls showed clear indications of ritualistic sacrifice. Archaeologists observed transverse cuts on the bone shaft near the cranio-cervical junction, suggesting the use of a sharp object to extract the skull. Although the neck and mandible maintained their anatomical relationship, it remains uncertain whether these wounds caused the deaths or were inflicted postmortem.
Intentional Cranial Deformation
Five of the skulls exhibited an unusually elongated shape, pointing to deliberate cranial deformation that began at an early age. This practice was not unique to the Mayans but was also observed in other ancient civilizations across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Researchers believe that skull elongation may have been linked to higher social status.
Insights from Teeth and Bones
Examination of the remains revealed signs of tooth decay in some individuals, likely due to a diet high in maize. Additionally, certain bones were adorned with red pigment, adding further intrigue to the findings.
The Mystery of Elongated Skulls
Elongated skulls have been discovered in various parts of the world, often associated with ancient indigenous groups. These skulls are nearly twice the size of typical human skulls and lack certain ridges commonly found in human crania. Instead, they feature an additional diagonal groove across the forehead, and their bones are often thicker and stronger compared to modern human skulls.
Depictions in Ancient Egypt
In Egypt, elongated skulls have been found and depicted in decorations and wall carvings, particularly during the era of the pharaohs. While Egyptologists often interpret these depictions as stylistic representations of royal headdresses worn by common people, the discovery of unusually elongated skulls in mummies, such as that of King Tutankhamun, raises questions about the true nature of this phenomenon.
As archaeologists continue their investigations at the Moral-Reforma site, they hope to uncover more answers about the enigmatic skulls and the ancient practices surrounding them. The clues found within the bones and teeth of the sacrificed individuals may illuminate the mysteries of the Mayan civilization and the persistent occurrence of skull deformation across various cultures worldwide.
