Ötzi

OetzitheIceman-glacier-199109a

Archeoparc - Museum Ötzi Kleidung

Error creating thumbnail:

OtzishoesS1340065

Ötzi the Iceman - Lithic assemblage

Mummified remains of a man from the Copper Age

Ötzi

Name	Ötzi
Birth name
Birth date	c. 3300 BCE
Birth place
Death date	c. 3300 BCE (aged about 45)
Death place	Ötztal Alps, near the present-day border between Austria and Italy
Alma mater
Occupation
Years active
Organization
Known for	Oldest natural human mummy
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Ötzi, also called the Iceman, is the well-preserved natural mummy of a man who lived around 3300 BCE. The mummy was discovered in September 1991 in the Ötztal Alps on the border between Austria and Italy. Ötzi is Europe's oldest known natural human mummy and has offered an unprecedented view of Copper Age Europeans.

Discovery

Ötzi was discovered by German tourists Helmut and Erika Simon on 19 September 1991. The body was found at an elevation of 3,210 meters (10,530 ft) on the east ridge of the Fineilspitze in the Ötztal Alps. Initially, it was believed that the body was that of a modern mountaineer, but subsequent investigations revealed that it was a prehistoric man.

Preservation and Examination

The mummy is remarkably well-preserved due to the glacier's ice, which protected it from decomposition. Ötzi's body, clothing, and equipment have been extensively studied, providing valuable insights into the life and times of Copper Age people.

Physical Characteristics

Ötzi was approximately 1.65 meters (5 ft 5 in) tall and weighed about 50 kilograms (110 lb) at the time of his death. He had brown eyes, and his hair was dark brown, though it had grayed slightly. His body had numerous tattoos, which are believed to have been part of a therapeutic or ritual practice.

Health and Diet

Analysis of Ötzi's remains has revealed that he suffered from several health issues, including arthritis, parasites, and dental problems. His last meals included grains, meat, and plants, indicating a varied diet.

Cause of Death

Ötzi's cause of death has been the subject of much research and debate. It is now widely believed that he died from injuries sustained in a violent confrontation. A flint arrowhead was found lodged in his left shoulder, and he had various cuts and bruises, suggesting he was attacked.

Clothing and Equipment

Ötzi's clothing was made from various animal skins and included a cloak, a belt, a loincloth, and shoes. He also carried a copper axe, a flint knife, a quiver of arrows, and other tools, which have provided significant insights into the technology and daily life of Copper Age people.

Significance

Ötzi's discovery has been a milestone in the field of archaeology and anthropology. The mummy has provided a wealth of information about the Copper Age, including insights into the diet, health, and technology of the time.

See Also

• Mummy
• Copper Age
• Archaeology
• Anthropology
• Ötztal Alps