spinare

Spinare is a term derived from the Latin word "spina," meaning thorn or spine. It refers to a type of medieval torture device used to inflict pain and suffering. The spinare consists of a wooden frame with a series of sharp, pointed spikes or thorns that are driven into the victim's flesh. The device is typically placed on the victim's back, with the spikes piercing through their clothing and into their skin. The spinare was used to extract confessions, punish criminals, and as a form of public humiliation. Its use was widespread throughout Europe during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. The spinare was eventually replaced by other torture methods as societal attitudes towards punishment and justice evolved. Today, the spinare is primarily of historical and forensic interest, used to study medieval torture practices and their effects on the human body.