Decoding Natufian mortuary practices through the taphonomy of an experimental burial

Area of Science:

• Archaeology
• Bioarchaeology
• Mortuary Archaeology

Background:

• Intentional burial dates back to 120,000 years ago.
• The Levantine Natufian culture (ca. 15,000 BP) developed stone-constructed graves in designated burial sites.
• Natufian investment in elaborate burials suggests complex motivations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the motivations behind Natufian elaborate burials.
• To provide data on post-depositional processes in Natufian-like graves.
• To offer insights into the incentives for constructing such graves.

Main Methods:

• Experimental archaeology: a wild boar was buried in a Natufian-like grave.
• Analysis of post-depositional modifications to the grave and its contents.
• Evaluation of the role of decomposition, gravity, and larval activity.

Main Results:

• Constructed graves offer protection, but decomposition, gravity, and larval activity cause significant modifications.
• Observed changes include shape/size alterations and stone/bone displacement.
• The experiment quantified post-depositional effects on grave contents and structure.

Conclusions:

• Natufian mortuary practices indicate a sophisticated understanding of postmortem changes.
• Graves were primarily constructed for the protection of the deceased.
• The complexity of mortuary practices necessitated strong social networks and collective ritual engagement, contributing to social structure development.