Iron Age massacre targeted women and children, new research reveals
Phys.org
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Archaeologists have uncovered evidence of a devastating Iron Age massacre in northern Serbia, where over 77 individuals were deliberately targeted, with most being women and children. This discovery marks one of the largest prehistoric mass killings found in Europe, shedding light on a brutal episode of violence against vulnerable groups during this period. The findings, which include multiple graves at the Gomolava burial sites, reveal signs of violent trauma, suggesting these individuals were systematically killed.
The Gomolava site, located near the Danube River, has long been recognized as an important archaeological location due to its extensive remains. However, recent excavations and advanced analysis have provided new insights into the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Using techniques such as isotopic analysis and CT scanning, researchers identified patterns of injury consistent with weapon strikes, indicating that the victims were likely killed in a concerted attack.
This discovery challenges earlier theories about prehistoric societies, which often portrayed them as relatively peaceful. Instead, it offers a glimpse into a darker side of early human history, where violence was used to target specific groups. The deliberate nature of the killings suggests a possible conflict or societal collapse that led to such extreme acts of violence.
The findings are significant for understanding both prehistoric warfare and gender dynamics in ancient societies. By focusing on women and children, researchers speculate that this massacre may have been part of a larger struggle for power or resources, where vulnerable populations were targeted to eliminate potential threats or rivals.
Overall, the Gomolava discovery provides valuable evidence about early human behavior and the violent conflicts that shaped prehistoric life. It underscores the
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/23/2026