9,000-year-old burial contains woman and unrelated infant. Dating approximately 9,000 years old, Mesolithic period Two individuals: woman aged 30-40 years, standing 5'1 tall; male infant aged 6-8 months DNA analysis in 2023 revealed they were fourth or fifth degree relatives, not mother and child

This Mesolithic burial held two individuals: a woman aged 30-40 (about 5'1 tall) and an infant aged 6-8 months. DNA analysis in 2023 revealed a surprise - they were fourth or fifth degree relatives, not mother and child. They may have been great-great-grandmother and descendant, or more distant relatives.

Key Facts

  • Dating approximately 9,000 years old, Mesolithic period
  • Two individuals: woman aged 30-40 years, standing 5'1 tall; male infant aged 6-8 months
  • DNA analysis in 2023 revealed they were fourth or fifth degree relatives, not mother and child
  • Relationship could be great-great-grandmother/descendant, cousins, or distant relatives
  • Burial position was upright sitting with legs flexed

Related site: Grabhügel Dürrenberg — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.