The Life of Vittrup Man: From Forager to Sacrifice
Insights from DNA, Isotope, and Protein Analysis
Vittrup Man, a Stone Age individual sacrificed in Denmark, unveils a captivating tale of migration and dietary evolution, as revealed by a recent study1 led by Anders Fischer and colleagues from the University of Gothenburg.
The Journey of Vittrup Man
Vittrup Man's remains were discovered in a peat bog in Northwest Denmark, dating back to 3300-3100 BC. His fragmented skeletal remains, including a smashed skull, suggest a ritualistic sacrifice—a common practice in the region during that era.
Unraveling His Origins
DNA analysis revealed that Vittrup Man's genetic signature differed from local contemporaneous people, prompting further investigation into his origins and life history. Strontium, carbon, and oxygen isotopes extracted from his tooth enamel indicated a childhood spent along the Scandinavian Peninsula's coast.
A Transition in Diet and Lifestyle
Isotope and protein analysis of Vittrup Man's teeth and bones shed light on his dietary evolution. He transitioned from a coastal diet, likely rich in marine mammals and fish, during his early years to a farming diet, potentially including sheep or goat, during his later teen years upon relocating to Denmark.
The Enigma of Vittrup Man
While the exact reason for Vittrup Man's relocation remains unclear, the authors speculate that he might have been a trader or captive who assimilated into the local farming society.
New Insights into European Societies
The detailed reconstruction of Vittrup Man's life history offers unprecedented insights into the interactions between Mesolithic and Neolithic societies in Europe. It highlights the complexities of migration, cultural exchange, and societal integration during that era.
Conclusion
The study marks a significant milestone, providing a comprehensive understanding of an ancient individual's life journey with remarkable detail and precision, enhancing our knowledge of prehistoric European societies.
Fischer, A., Sjögren, K.-G., Jensen, T. Z. T., Jørkov, M. L., Lysdahl, P., Vimala, T., Refoyo-Martínez, A., Scorrano, G., Price, T. D., Gröcke, D. R., Gotfredsen, A. B., Sørensen, L., Alexandersen, V., Wåhlin, S., Stenderup, J., Bennike, O., Ingason, A., Iversen, R., Sikora, M., … Kristiansen, K. (2024). Vittrup Man–The life-history of a genetic foreigner in Neolithic Denmark. PloS One, 19(2), e0297032. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0297032