Child vampire burial discovered in medieval Poland

Recent renovations near a historic Cathedral in Poland led to the discovery of the remains of two medieval children, dating back to the 13th century. One of the children exhibited clear signs of a burial associated with vampirism, a common superstition in Eastern Europe during the Middle Ages. This belief often resulted in unusual burial practices for those suspected of being vampires, including dismemberment or the use of heavy stones to prevent the dead from rising. The burial site revealed that the children were interred without coffins or traditional funerary items, a practice that aligns with the superstitions of the time. The skeletons were oriented east-west, with the skull of one child facing downward, a method believed to deter the deceased from escaping. Archaeologists noted that stones were placed on the torso of one child, further indicating the fear surrounding these burials. Sediment analysis and ceramic dating suggest that these children lived during a period when diseases were often attributed to supernatural causes, such as vampirism or demonic possession. Previous studies have shown that many individuals suspected of being vampires were actually suffering from illnesses like tuberculosis, which may have contributed to the fears surrounding their deaths. The findings highlight the intersection of health, superstition, and burial practices in medieval society. As researchers continue to analyze the remains, they hope to uncover more details about the children, including their age, gender, and the circumstances of their deaths, shedding light on this unique historical discovery.