In an extraordinary archaeological discovery, a pair of baby boys found at the Krems-Wachtberg site in northeastern Austria have been identified as the earliest known identical twins. These remarkable remains, which date back approximately 31,000 years, are providing valuable insight into the lives and burial practices of early humans during the Upper Paleolithic period.
Discovery of the Identical Twins
The twin babies were unearthed in 2005 at the Krems-Wachtberg site, a significant archaeological location in Austria. The remains were found buried together in a block of soil, preserved for tens of thousands of years. These ancient twins are among the oldest evidence of human twins ever discovered.
Burial Rituals and Red Ochre
One of the most striking features of the twins’ burial is the use of red ochre, a pigment commonly associated with ritual burials during the Upper Paleolithic. Red ochre was often used by ancient peoples for symbolic and ceremonial purposes, suggesting that the twins’ burial may have had significant spiritual or cultural meaning.
Moreover, the babies were buried beneath the shoulder blade of a mammoth, which appears to have played a role in preserving the remains. The placement under the mammoth’s shoulder blade not only helped protect the bodies from the elements but also highlights the important role that large mammals, like mammoths, played in the lives of prehistoric humans.
Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of the earliest known identical twins provides a rare and intimate glimpse into the lives of our prehistoric ancestors. It also sheds light on their burial customs, the importance of symbolic rituals, and the relationship between humans and the natural world, including their interactions with large mammals like the mammoth.
Conclusion
The Krems-Wachtberg twin discovery has provided a fascinating addition to our understanding of Paleolithic archaeology, showcasing the complex social and spiritual practices of early humans. These twins, who lived more than 30,000 years ago, continue to captivate archaeologists and historians, offering a glimpse into the distant past and the remarkable lives of our ancient ancestors.