Scientists have unearthed the remains of a baby in Syria, dating the individual to the period between 4,200 and 3,900 BC. The site, Tel Brak, is recognized as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited urban centers. Researchers studying the remains suggest that the challenges associated with early urbanization may have contributed to the physical stress experienced by the child.
Based on the development of the baby’s teeth, the scientific team determined that the child was approximately six to nine months old at the time of death. Analysis of the remains, recovered from a children’s cemetery near Late Bronze Age workshops, revealed significant physical trauma. Specifically, the bones showed evidence of four broken ribs located near the sternum.
Furthermore, the growth pattern of the right ilium was observed to be abnormal, and active, open lesions were present on both sides of the skull. These findings indicate that the skeletal structure endured intense and recurrent trauma. The thorough examination conducted by the scientists provides critical insight into the health and harsh living conditions of early populations.
The discovery of one such vulnerable individual offers valuable data for understanding life in the ancient Near East.
Topics: #scientists #baby #one
