Ötzi

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OetzitheIceman-glacier-199109a
File:OetzitheIceman-glacier-199109b.jpg
OetzitheIceman-glacier-199109b
Archeoparc - Museum Ötzi Kleidung
OtzishoesS1340065
Ötzi the Iceman - Lithic assemblage

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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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External Links[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD