A 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb containing 14 skeletons was discovered on the Orkney Islands, Scotland.
The discovery is significant as it is one of the few Neolithic tombs in Scotland that still contains human remains.
The tomb contained the remains of both adults and children, pottery shards, and stone tools.
The tomb was discovered during a routine survey by the Orkney Research Centre for Archaeology (ORCA).
Archaeologists have unearthed a 5,000-year-old Neolithic tomb on the Orkney Islands, Scotland, containing 14 skeletons. The discovery was made during a routine survey of the area by the Orkney Research Centre for Archaeology (ORCA). The tomb, which is believed to be from the Neolithic period, was found to contain the remains of both adults and children. The skeletons were found in a crouched position, which is typical of Neolithic burials. The tomb also contained pottery shards and stone tools, providing further evidence of its age and the culture of the people who were buried there. The discovery of the tomb provides a unique opportunity to learn more about the life and death of the people who lived in Scotland during the Neolithic period. The remains will be subjected to further analysis, including DNA testing, to provide more information about the individuals and their relationship to each other and the wider Neolithic population of Scotland.
The discovery of the tomb is significant as it is one of the few Neolithic tombs to be found in Scotland that still contains human remains. Many such tombs have been robbed or disturbed over the centuries, making it difficult for archaeologists to piece together a complete picture of Neolithic life. The tomb's location on the Orkney Islands, which are known for their rich archaeological heritage, adds to its significance. The islands are home to a number of Neolithic sites, including the Ring of Brodgar and Skara Brae, which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The exact age of the tomb and the skeletons is based on the archaeologists' estimates and the artifacts found within the tomb. Further testing is needed to confirm these estimates.