Polish archaeologists uncover 17th-century graves of woman and child secured with padlocks
Archaeologists in Poland unearthed a chilling 17th-century find: the remains of a woman and child, both padlocked in their graves This macabre discovery sheds light on vampire beliefs as Halloween draws near
In Poland, archaeologists have discovered the remains of a child from the 17th century. The child's body was found padlocked to the grave, which was intended to prevent them from coming back to life. This finding sheds light on the historical belief in vampires, just in time for Halloween. The bones belong to a 6- or 7-year-old and were unearthed in a cemetery in the village of Pien in northern Poland. During this time period, people viewed entities such as ghosts, zombies, and other supernatural beings as more than just costumes for fancy dress.
In the cemetery, a woman's body was discovered with a padlock fastened to her leg and a sickle positioned around her neck, indicating the belief that she was a vampire.
Dariusz Polinski, a scholar specializing in medieval burials at Nicolaus Copernicus University in the city of ToruÅ, described the cemetery as a resting place for individuals who were deemed ominous in life as well as in death. They were suspected of having connections with impure forces and exhibited distinct behaviors.
In Pien, Poland, a captivating sight emerges as the remains of a young woman are discovered. Startlingly, a padlock delicately adorns her foot, coupled with the presence of an iron sickle neatly placed across her neck. The purpose behind these intriguing additions becomes clear - a safeguard against her possible resurrection.
According to the expert, the child's burial involved placing a triangular iron padlock under its foot, likely in an attempt to prevent it from rising and wandering among the living.
"These individuals, whether deliberately or not, were fearful of any interaction with these particular individuals due to concerns of potential biting or blood drinking," stated Polinski.
At some unidentified time after burial, the grave of the child was violated and all bones except for those in the legs were taken away.
Archaeologists have uncovered additional techniques employed to counter the undead, as Polinski has elucidated peculiar rituals observed in certain burial sites.
"Furthermore, an abundance of graves were discovered adorned with stones... presumed to provide safeguard against the deceased, positioned in diverse locations, such as the elbow, larynx, or neck."
