In 1991, within the ancient glacier region of the Alps, straddling the border between Austria and Italy, the remarkably preserved body of a man dating back 5,300 years was discovered. This prehistoric individual became known as “Ötzi the Iceman.” Scientists have undertaken numerous costly studies regarding this discovery.
Professor Aug, an expert in ancient human studies from the University of Innsbruck, Austria, revealed that Ötzi is currently the best-preserved prehistoric corpse known. Pollen grains from the Alpine plant Hornbeam were found intact in Ötzi’s intestines. This plant only blooms in spring and thrives at altitudes below sea level. Therefore, it can be inferred that Ötzi died in the spring or early summer. Furthermore, analysis of Ötzi’s skin has shown that his body must have been submerged in water for several weeks to over a dozen weeks before becoming encased in ice.
Professor Aug’s findings have led many to question previous assumptions regarding the cause of Ötzi’s death. Earlier, scientists believed that he fell victim to a sudden snowstorm in autumn, ultimately succumbing to the harsh cold.
This new evidence has prompted researchers to reexamine why Ötzi was found at such a high altitude. Some researchers have speculated that Ötzi may have been brought there as a sacrificial offering during the Neolithic era. However, Professor Aug’s observations suggest a different narrative: “We can confirm that within 12 hours before his death, Ötzi had likely slept at the bottom of the gorge—where the Hornbeam trees were, a place he frequented for rest.”
The prehistoric man was found wearing a hat, with his feet wrapped in sheep leather, and dressed in three layers of clothing made from deer hide, sheep wool, and tree bark fibers. Beside Ötzi’s remains was a copper axe and a bag filled with arrows.
Ötzi stood 1.62 meters tall and was approximately 50 years old at the time of his death. The research team led by Professor Aug had previously demonstrated that Ötzi suffered from respiratory ailments and harbored parasites in his body. In the months leading up to the accident, Ötzi had experienced three severe illnesses. The high levels of copper and arsenic found in his hair indicate that he may have worked in copper smelting. All these factors contribute to the ongoing mystery surrounding Ötzi’s death, leaving the true circumstances still unclear.
