Archaeologists reveal details of 400-year-old ‘vampire’ burial in Poland

Archaeologists from Nicolaus Copernicus University have published new research regarding a 400-year-old burial site near the village of Pień in northern Poland. The grave, containing the remains of a young woman nicknamed ‘Zosia’ who was likely between 17 and 19 years old at the time of death, features macabre precautions intended to prevent her from rising again.

Researchers found a rusted sickle placed over the woman’s throat and a triangular padlock fastened to her big toe. While the padlock was likely placed during the initial burial, evidence suggests the grave may have been reopened while the body was still decomposing to add the sickle. The placement of the blade appears designed to sever the neck should the deceased attempt to stand up.

Additionally, traces of a copper and gold object were found in the woman’s mouth or nose, leaving a greenish stain on her palate. The site, which contains approximately 101 graves from the 17th century, appears to have been a Protestant cemetery, as it lacks the crosses and medals typical of Catholic burials of that era. The study, published in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, utilizes ancient DNA and advanced analysis to understand the community's fears of the deceased returning as vampires or demons.