Brutal Iron Age massacre may have targeted women and children
New Scientist
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
An examination of bones from a mass grave at Gomolava, an Iron Age site in Serbia, has revealed one of the largest prehistoric mass killings in Europe. The gravesite, dating back over 2800 years, contains the remains of 77 individuals, with most being women, adolescents, and children. This discovery suggests a deliberate targeting of vulnerable populations, as 51 of the victims were identified as female or underage. The findings challenge traditional narratives of prehistoric warfare, which often focus on adult males.
The site, an artificial mound known as a "tell," has been inhabited for thousands of years, with layers of debris including pottery and collapsed mud-brick structures. Researchers from the University of Edinburgh analyzed DNA and isotopic data from the bones, revealing that most individuals were unrelated and had distinct childhood diets, further supporting the idea of a diverse, widespread society. The victims likely originated from various groups, possibly leading to conflict over land use during a time of transition in the region.
The mass killing occurred in the 9th century BC, coinciding with the arrival of mobile pastoralists from the Eurasian steppe and the reoccupation of ancient sites by settled farmers. This clash of cultures and land use practices may have sparked tensions, leading to the massacre. The victims were buried with personal items like jewelry and ceramic vessels, along with animal remains and tools, suggesting a ritualistic or symbolic aspect to the killings.
The discovery highlights the instability and violence inherent in Iron Age Europe, offering new insights into prehistoric societies and their conflicts. The targeting of women and children challenges conventional views of warfare and raises questions about power dynamics and societal structures during this period. This research not only sheds light on ancient history but also underscores the need to consider gender and vulnerable populations when examining violent events from the past.
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Originally published on New Scientist on 2/23/2026