Archaeologists have recently discovered a Neolithic arrowhead in an Iron Age burial near Fröndenberg-Frömern in Germany’s Unna district.
This remarkable find provides valuable insights into the cultural practices and technological advancements of ancient civilizations.
The excavation, led by archaeologists from the Regional Association of Westphalia-Lippe, revealed a small burial ground containing cremation burials. Although most of the burials had been destroyed by agriculture, two large burials were identified. One of these burials contained a slightly oval pit at a depth of 15 centimeters, which held large ceramic shards deposited as funerary offerings. Some of these shards still bear finger impressions from their production around 2,000 years ago.
The highlight of this discovery was the unearthing of a Neolithic arrowhead. Archaeologists believe that this arrowhead may have served as a talisman. Its presence in an Iron Age burial raises intriguing questions about cultural exchange and continuity across different time periods.
Dr. Eva Cichy from the Olpe branch of the Regional Association of Westphalia-Lippe Archeology commented on the significance of this find: "When a few remains of corpses were uncovered, it quickly became clear that we had found a small burial ground. In some graves, the remains of vessels used as urns were still preserved".
This discovery sheds light on the complex funerary practices and beliefs of ancient societies. The presence of ceramic shards and the Neolithic arrowhead suggests that these objects held symbolic value and played a role in rituals associated with death and the afterlife.
Further research and analysis will be conducted to gain a deeper understanding of this Neolithic arrowhead’s origin, craftsmanship, and its significance within Iron Age burial practices. Archaeologists hope that this discovery will contribute to our knowledge of prehistoric cultures and their interactions.