Remains of Teenager Suggest Possible Human Sacrifice in Ancient Western Europe
BURGOS, SPAIN – November 5, 2025 - archaeologists in Burgos, Spain, have unearthed the remains of a teenager dating back approximately 2,000 years, potentially linked to a ritualistic human sacrifice. The discovery, made at the archaeological site of La Haza del Lomo, offers a rare glimpse into funerary practices and societal structures of the pre-Roman era in the Iberian Peninsula.
The find is significant because it provides the first documented evidence of matrilineal communities in Western European prehistory, according to researchers. This kinship system, where ancestry and inheritance are traced through the maternal line, challenges existing understandings of social organization during that period. The remains, along with associated artifacts, are currently undergoing detailed analysis to confirm the nature of the burial and the circumstances surrounding the individual’s death.
The excavation at La Haza del Lomo, a significant archaeological site revealing a complex settlement from the late Iron Age, began in 2017. The teenager’s remains were found within a structure identified as a possible sanctuary or ceremonial space. Researchers are meticulously examining the skeletal remains for signs of trauma consistent with sacrificial practices.
“This is the first time that it has been documented evidence of matrilineage communities in the prehistory of Western Europe,” stated researcher Russel, emphasizing the importance of the discovery for understanding ancient social structures. Further inquiry is planned to determine the precise role of this individual within the community and the specific rituals associated with their burial. The findings are expected to shed light on the religious beliefs and social dynamics of the people who inhabited this region two millennia ago.
