Global Tradition of Foundation Effigies in Construction. The tradition of burying human effigies in construction extends into modern times In 1813, an old man told engineers they needed to bury a child in a dam to repair it In 1843, people discussed burying a child in bridge foundations

The tradition of burying human effigies in construction extends into modern times. In 1813, an old man claimed a child needed burying in a dam to repair it. In 1843, people discussed burying a child in bridge foundations. This idea permeated throughout the ages — from ancient civilizations to European folklore like Merlin's dragons in castle foundations. A remarkably persistent tradition spanning millennia! 🏗️🌍

Key Facts

  • The tradition of burying human effigies in construction extends into modern times
  • In 1813, an old man told engineers they needed to bury a child in a dam to repair it
  • In 1843, people discussed burying a child in bridge foundations
  • This tradition found in Celts, Greeks, Sumerians, Mayans, and ancient Anatolians
  • The practice appears in European folklore including Merlin's dragons in castle foundations