Poland archaeologists study 17th-century unusual female burial

Archaeologists from the Nicolaus Copernicus University have released a systematic study regarding a 17th-century burial in Pień, Poland, that suggests anti-vampiric rituals were practiced. The remains, belonging to a young woman aged 17 to 19, were found with a curved iron sickle placed over her neck and a triangular iron padlock attached to her left big toe.

Analysis published in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports indicates the woman likely belonged to a wealthy family, evidenced by a silk headwear cap containing expensive gold-gilded and pure silver threads. While DNA analysis revealed a rare maternal genetic lineage with Scandinavian origins, isotope analysis of her teeth shows she was raised locally in Pień.

Researchers suggest the unusual burial methods—including the use of a birch-handled sickle, a wood believed to have protective properties—were intended to prevent the deceased from returning to life. The site, which lacks Catholic devotional objects, may have had Protestant roots. The study also noted a green copper stain on her remains, suggesting a copper object may have been placed in her mouth or nasal passage at the time of death.