An enigmatic cave in Africa has been used as a tomb for 28 individuals during the 14th and 15th centuries, with their faces deliberately modified to create distortions, surrounded by numerous luxurious burial goods.
According to Ancient Origins, 28 deformed skeletons were discovered in remarkably pristine condition at Iroungoi Cave, a cave described as “extraordinary” in Gabon, located in the western part of Central Africa.
Archaeologists at the site – (Photo: Antiquity).
According to archaeologist Richard Oslisly from the Gabon National Parks Agency, who led the expedition, it is typically difficult to find ancient remains in Africa due to the acidic soil that rapidly decomposes human bones. Therefore, this discovery is considered “unique”, not only because of the condition of the skeletons but also due to the strange markings on the skulls of the deceased.
All of these individuals were buried with a wealth of burial goods that were among the most valuable to the community living in the 14th-15th centuries, which also marks the era of the “tomb.”
Skull with the jawbone surgically removed – (Photo: Antiquity).
The archaeologists collected 486 iron artifacts, 26 bronze items, 127 Atlantic Ocean seashells, and 39 animal teeth with drilled holes… While these may seem insignificant when considered as modern objects, for this ancient tribe, they represent a vast treasure, indicating that those buried here held a very high status.
All their skulls exhibit traces of the intentional removal of multiple molars, resulting in facial distortions. This gruesome detail is actually a form of… ancient cosmetic surgery, seemingly a privilege of elite individuals. According to archaeologists, the reasons for body modification were often related to aesthetics, sexuality, or religion.
According to a publication in Antiquity, those interred in Iroungoi may represent several generations of a tribal leader’s family. The reasons for their special burial practices and the ancient civilization or ethnic group they belonged to remain a mystery.
