Skeletal remains of two Bronze Age women were discovered at a construction site in Kent, U.K., during an archaeological survey on January 22, 2025. The remains included skull fragments and artifacts, providing insights into burial practices from the Bronze Age era.
- Skeletal remains of Bronze Age women found
- Crouch-burial position dates back to Neolithic
- Artifacts include pottery and animal bones
- Skull fragments from another young woman
- Insights into Bronze Age burial practices
- Research on early metal use and farming
The discovery of the skeletal remains occurred at a site planned for 41 homes, where archaeologists also found animal bones and pottery. One of the women was buried in a crouched position, a practice noted as early as the Later Neolithic era, which dates back approximately 5500-4700 years. The second set of remains, identified as skull fragments, is believed to belong to a young woman from 500-400 BC.
Researchers have previously documented various burial practices of Bronze Age Britons, including mummification techniques such as placing bodies in bogs or smoking them. The findings at this site contribute to understanding these practices and the cultural significance behind them. Key artifacts retrieved from the site include:
- Bronze Age pottery
- Animal bones
- Evidence of a Roman road
These artifacts and remains will be archived by Kent County Council for further study. The findings offer valuable insights into an era marked by the advent of metal use for tools and the expansion of agriculture in southeastern England. This period was crucial for the development of early communities and their practices.
The discovery of the Bronze Age remains in Kent highlights the rich history of burial practices and cultural developments in early Britain. As researchers analyze these findings, they hope to uncover more about the lives and customs of people from this transformative era.
