Yde Girl

Yde Girl is the name given to a bog body of a teenage girl who lived during the Iron Age. Her remains were discovered in the Netherlands in 1897. The body was found in a peat bog near the village of Yde, in the province of Drenthe. Yde Girl is one of the many well-preserved bog bodies that have been found in northern Europe.

Discovery

Yde Girl was discovered on May 12, 1897, by two peat cutters. The body was found approximately 1.5 meters below the surface. The peat cutters initially thought they had found the remains of a recently deceased person and reported the find to the local authorities. Upon examination, it was determined that the body was much older, dating back to the Iron Age.

Preservation

The preservation of Yde Girl's body is attributed to the unique conditions of the peat bog. The acidic, low-oxygen environment of the bog helped to prevent the decomposition of her remains. Her skin and hair were remarkably well-preserved, although her bones had largely decalcified.

Physical Characteristics

Yde Girl is estimated to have been around 16 years old at the time of her death. She had long, reddish-blonde hair, which was tied in a knot on the right side of her head. Her body showed signs of scoliosis, a condition that causes a curvature of the spine. She was approximately 137 cm (4 feet 6 inches) tall.

Cause of Death

The cause of Yde Girl's death is believed to be strangulation. A woolen band was found wrapped around her neck, suggesting that she may have been ritually killed. This theory is supported by the fact that many other bog bodies show signs of violent deaths, which are often interpreted as ritual sacrifices.

Examination and Research

Yde Girl's remains have been extensively studied since their discovery. In 1992, her body was subjected to a CT scan, which provided detailed images of her internal structures. This scan revealed the extent of her scoliosis and provided further evidence of the cause of her death.

Exhibition

Yde Girl's remains are currently housed in the Drents Museum in Assen, Netherlands. The museum features an exhibit dedicated to her and other bog bodies, providing visitors with insights into the lives and deaths of these ancient individuals.

Significance

Yde Girl is an important archaeological find that provides valuable information about the people of the Iron Age. Her well-preserved remains offer insights into the health, diet, and social practices of her time. The study of bog bodies like Yde Girl helps to shed light on the rituals and beliefs of ancient European cultures.

See Also

• Bog body
• Drents Museum
• Iron Age
• Scoliosis