Ötzi

Ötzi, also known as the Iceman, is the naturally mummified body of a man who lived sometime between 3350 and 3100 BCE. He was discovered on September 19, 1991, in the Ötztal Alps on the border between Austria and Italy, hence his nickname. The exceptionally well-preserved mummy offers a unique glimpse into the Copper Age.

Ötzi's remains were found encased in ice, which contributed to his remarkable preservation. Alongside his body, archaeologists found a wealth of personal belongings, including clothing made from animal skins, a copper axe, a flint dagger, a bow and arrows, and various tools. These artifacts have provided invaluable information about the technology, lifestyle, and diet of people living over 5,000 years ago.

Scientific studies on Ötzi have revealed details about his health, his last meal, his genetic origins, and even the tattoos found on his skin. These tattoos, which are simple line patterns, are believed to have had a medicinal or ritualistic purpose. Ötzi's death is thought to have been violent, with evidence suggesting he was shot in the back with an arrow and may have suffered a blow to the head. His discovery remains one of the most significant archaeological finds of the 20th century.