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2 clusters · 7 sources · 3 days · First seen 6 days ago · Last updated 4 days ago

Archaeological discoveries at Santa Clara Convent

Overview

Archaeological excavations at the Santa Clara Convent in Pontevedra, Spain, have uncovered rare remains exhibiting cadaveric saponification. Initially, researchers reported the discovery of a single saponified brain, described as one of only four known globally. The site also contained the remains of nuns, two minors, and a chaplain, alongside over 3,000 artifacts including ceramics, coins, and glass.

Subsequent findings revealed that two saponified brains were actually discovered within three complete burials located in the lower choir. This phenomenon occurs when body fat transforms into a waxy substance called adipocere due to humid, anaerobic conditions. Experts suggest these remains, likely dating from the 16th to 19th centuries, may represent the first documented cases of this nature in the Iberian Peninsula. The specimens are being transferred to the University of Santiago de Compostela for histological studies to analyze their composition and structure.

Entities

University of Santiago de Compostela · Santa Clara Convent · Pontevedra · A Citania · CISPAC

Timeline

4 days ago

[CULTURE] 3 sources
Santa Clara Convent discovery reveals rare saponified brains
Archaeologists in Pontevedra have discovered two saponified brains at the Santa Clara Convent, a rare phenomenon where body fat turns into adipocere, marking a significant find for the Iberian Peninsula.
6 days ago

[CULTURE] 4 sources
Santa Clara Convent discovery reveals rare saponified brain
Archaeologists in Pontevedra, Spain, have discovered a rare saponified brain at the Santa Clara Convent, a find that is one of only four such documented cases worldwide.

Sources

20minutos.es · atlantico.net · caminodesantiago.lavozdegalicia.com · enfoques.gal · laregion.es · ocio.farodevigo.es · sedici.unlp.edu.ar