On the bank of the Rafina stream in Greek Attica, archaeologists uncovered an ancient Bronze Age tomb. Near it, a ritual pit was situated. These discoveries shed light on the funeral customs of ancient communities who lived here over 4000 years ago.
The principal find is a large pithos-shaped tomb vessel, 1.74 meters high. It dates from the period between 3200 and 2000 BC. The burial’s distinctiveness lies in its method of protection. The vessel’s mouth was sealed with a semicircular stone wall, inside which a stone structure resembling a doorway was constructed. This “door” symbolically barred passage to the world of the dead.
Inside the vessel, remains of two individuals were located. Their bodies rested on a bedding of sand and pebbles and were covered with large stones. Nearby, burial artifacts were discovered: a copper awl, a stone tablet, obsidian arrowheads, and ceramic vessels.
Just two meters from the tomb, archaeologists excavated a large circular pit showing signs of intense fires. Animal bones were found there: a complete horse skeleton, a bull’s skull, and remnants of smaller beasts. The placement of the bones and the abundance of ash suggest that rituals, possibly involving sacrifices, took place here for an extended time.
Although a direct link between the tomb and the pit has not yet been confirmed, their close proximity is not coincidental. Likely, this location was considered sacred and utilized for rites connected with death and ancestor veneration.
This discovery is significant for science. It shows that even in those ancient times, society was complexly organized. People believed in the afterlife and expended considerable effort creating secured spaces for the deceased and conducting ceremonies. The tomb’s unique structure might indicate a high status for those interred or suggest cultural connections with other regions.
Now, scientists face detailed investigation. Analysis of the bones, soil, and organic residues will help accurately determine the age of the findings, the nature of the rituals, and reconstruct the complete picture of ancient life on the Rafina shores.
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