"The location and frequency of the cut marks and the intentional fracturing of the skeleton clearly show nutritional exploitation of the bodies," study lead author Francesc Marginedas, a doctoral student at the Catalan Institute of Human Paleoecology and Social Evolution (IPHES), said in a translated statement.
But because there is no evidence of the victims being buried in a respectful way, and instead found butchered with animal bones, researchers believe it is an example of "warfare cannibalism".
Looking at the pattern of the cut marks, researchers noted that the aggressors were likely eating the most calorie-dense parts of corpses shortly after their death: the brains, bones marrow and muscles.
Cut marks and fractures on the bones suggest these ancient humans had their skulls cracked open and their brains scooped out by their aggressors.
Gruesome evidence of early European cannibals who ate the BRAINS of their enemies to celebrate war victories uncovered All recommendations within this article are informed by expert editorial opinion.
