The skull of ‘Vittrup Man’ was smashed by eight heavy blows in a violent murder, new research finds

The mystery surrounding the ancient “Vittrup Man,” whose remains were discovered in a peat bog in northwest Denmark over a century ago, has been unraveled by a collaborative effort of international scientists. Through advanced genetic analyses and cutting-edge research techniques, a detailed portrait of this 5,000-year-old individual’s life has emerged.

Originally found in 1915 by peat diggers near the village of Vittrup, the skeletal remains, including a fragmented skull and jaw, hinted at a violent end, with evidence of at least eight blows to the head. mOne prevailing theory regarding Vittrup Man’s demise suggests that he may have been a victim of ritual sacrifice, a common practice in Neolithic Europe...