The burial patterns in the Archaeological Site of Lapa do Santo (early Holocene, east-central Brazil)

Abstract

Human skeletons dating from the early Holocene are rare, preventing a detailed study of the funerary practices of that period. The archeological site Lapa do Santo is an exception. Between 2001 and 2009, 26 burials dated to the early Holocene were exhumed. Here they are described and classified into seven distinct burial patterns. The site started to be used as a burial ground between 10300-10600 cal BP with simple articulated burials (Pattern 1). Between 9400-9600 cal BP, funeral practices are characterized by the perimortem handling of the corpse and subsequent burial of disarticulated bones of multiple individuals (Pattern 2). Between 8200-8600 cal BP, disarticulated skeletons of single individuals, whose long bones show perimortem fractures, were deposited in circular pits (Pattern 3). The other burial patterns include skeletons whose members were removed (Pattern 4), burials of complete skeletons in bundles (Pattern 5), cremation (Pattern 6) and disarticulated burials covered with sandstone blocks (Pattern 7). This assemblage characterizes a unique diversity of funerary practices for the early Holocene. It contrasts sharply with the homogeneity traditionally attributed to the lithic technology and dietary habits of these groups. It also points to constant changes over time, contradicting the view that these groups were averse to cultural innovation.