Archaeologists Unearth 1,800-Year-Old Dog Remains in Ancient Roman Site, Shedding Light on Ritual Sacrifice

Archaeologists Unearth 1,800-Year-Old Dog Remains in Ancient Roman Site, Shedding Light on Ritual Sacrifice

Recently, archaeologists made a significant discovery in Belgium, unearthing the remains of a well-preserved dog dating back to ancient Rome. This intriguing find highlights the historical prevalence of ritualistic practices associated with animals in antiquity.

The excavation, proclaimed by the SOLVA Archaeology Service on March 21, took place in Velzeke, a village that once served as a regional hub in Roman times. Arne Verbrugge, an archaeologist from Flanders, shared insights about the excavation process and its implications.

Details of the Discovery

The skeletal remains of the dog were found largely intact, with its mouth and several teeth still present. These remains were located under a stone floor, which significantly contributed to their preservation. Verbrugge noted that most bones recovered from the Roman period in the region show considerable decay, emphasizing the uniqueness of this find.

He explained that the combination of the burial site and the specific geological conditions created an unusually favorable environment for preservation. The dog was buried beneath a foundation made of highly calcareous sandstone, leading to excellent conservation of its remains.

Ritual Practices Involving Dogs

In Roman culture, dogs often played a role in various ceremonial practices. Verbrugge elaborated that these animals were sometimes considered guardians of human graves. They were commonly sacrificed to assist in the deceased’s journey to the afterlife.

However, this particular dog’s sacrifice appears to have been tied to a building project, a rare finding in Belgium. Verbrugge referenced the work of Roman scholar Varro, which suggests that dogs were used in rituals to purify land and structures before construction commenced.

He further highlighted the association between the ritual sacrifice of dogs and the festival of Lupercalia, a celebration honoring the deity Faunus, closely linked to fertility and purification.

Implications of the Sacrifice

The stone building above which the dog was buried likely served a significant purpose during its time. According to Verbrugge, this discovery marks the first instance of a dog sacrifice associated with a building in the Flanders region, although similar cases have been documented in other parts of Europe, including France and the UK.

He theorized that the site may have been selected for its ritual significance. The presence of stone foundations, uncommon in the Roman period for this area, suggests a building of considerable status, likely intended for military, administrative, or religious functions.

Further Analysis of the Remains

Initially, the dog’s remains underwent analysis at the excavation site. The next steps involve a thorough examination to uncover more information about the dog, although Verbrugge noted that the specific breed remains uncertain due to the passage of time.

Once washed, the bones can be subjected to further testing. Verbrugge expressed hope that scientists will be able to deduce vital information regarding the dog’s age, gender, and cause of death, despite the challenge of identifying its breed. He emphasized that contemporary dog breeds were a relatively recent innovation.

Additional Findings at the Site

In addition to the dog remains, archaeologists discovered a slew of artifacts, including another dog’s bones, the remains of a young pig, and around 33 intact drinking cups, plus a bronze bowl. Verbrugge described these items as remnants of settlement waste rather than ritual offerings.

These findings underline a vibrant culture thriving in the area, as evidenced by luxury artifacts, jewelry, and even silver coins. The presence of these items indicates that the site was not only a residential area but also a center for artisanal activities.

A Glimpse into Roman Life

The artifacts recovered from the site illustrate the daily lives of those who inhabited it, revealing insights into their cultural practices. The pits discovered on site contained slag and fragments from oven walls, further affirming the presence of artisan activities nearby.

Moreover, Verbrugge pointed out the likelihood that ritual or religious ceremonies took place on part of this excavation site, providing a deeper understanding of the society’s connection to both the spiritual and practical aspects of life during ancient Roman times.

This fascinating archaeological discovery not only sheds light on the significance of dogs in Roman rituals but also prompts a reevaluation of how ancient societies interacted with their environment and the animals within it.

As efforts continue to analyze the dog remains and other artifacts, scholars hope to uncover further details that will enrich our understanding of the rituals and daily life in this ancient settlement.