INTENTIONAL MODIFICATIONS OF THE SKULL. FIRST RECORD OF CRANIAL PERFORATION IN NORTHEAST ARGENTINA

Abstract

In bioarchaeological and palaeopathological research, intentional modifications to the skull are of great value as they allow different aspects of past individuals and populations to be addressed. An example of cranial modifications widely reported in different parts of the world is trepanation. In Argentina, bioarchaeological studies have so far reported few examples of these interventions. The aim of this work is to present, analyze, and discuss the findings on intentional perforations in the skull of a child buried at the late Holocene archaeological site of Cerro Lorenzo 2 (Entre Ríos, Argentina). The analyzes included X-rays and a macroscopic differential diagnosis to evaluate possible etiologies. The results indicate that the cavities were made perimortem and using the drilling technique. Finally, we discuss the range of possible ritual and therapeutic reasons for this intervention and the regional implications of this unprecedented practice in Northeast Argentina.