The intriguing history of the human calvaria: Sinister and religious

Abstract

Introduction: A review of the ancient world finds multiple documentations describing the use of the human calvaria as a drinking implement. Terminology: This term, which is frequently and incorrectly called the "calvarium," has a unique history among multiple cultures of the world. For example, the purported site of Jesus' crucifixion "Calvary" is derived from this term calvaria. The present report explores the derivation, misuse, and history of the human calvaria. © Springer-Verlag 2007.