Fossils discovered in Poland have revealed that early human communities engaged in cannibalism to survive and during times of warfare. Bone fragments examined under 3D microscopy showed clear signs of consumption of brains and marrow.

Fossils unearthed from a cave in Poland indicate that early human communities in Europe engaged in cannibalism approximately 18,000 years ago during times of warfare, sometimes even consuming the brains of their enemies.

Human fossils found in the Maszycka Cave provided evidence of cannibalistic practices. A study published in Scientific Reports revealed cut marks on bones, examined through 3D microscopy, suggesting intentional actions to access nutrient-rich organs like brains and marrow.

Researchers suggest that these marks indicate humans not only partook in cannibalism for ritual purposes but also consumed each other as a means of survival. Particularly noticeable are intentional fractures on skulls and long bones to remove skin and extract marrow. The presence of animal remains alongside the bones suggests that humans and animals might have been hunted and consumed simultaneously. Francesc Marginedas from Rovira i Virgili University stated, “Cut marks and intentional fractures clearly show that bodies were used as a source of sustenance.” Researchers believe that increased population and resource competition following the Last Glacial Maximum may have triggered intergroup violence and war cannibalism.