Top 20 Oldest Known Skeletons

This naturally mummified skeleton is estimated to be around 5,300 years old, making him one of the oldest known human remains ever discovered. Discovered in the Alps in 1991, Ötzi's body was found well-preserved due to the cold and dry climate. The skeleton reveals a wealth of information about Copper Age life, including injuries, infections, and clothing made from animal hides. Ötzi's presence also highlights the importance of natural mummification processes.

Discovered in 1928, the Red Lady is a Neolithic skeleton believed to be around 4,500 years old. The body was found with significant injuries, suggesting possible violence or ritualistic practices. Analysis has revealed that the skeleton may have been deliberately buried with various objects, including stones and shells, possibly as part of funerary rites.

Dated to around 1000 BCE, these ancient mummies were discovered in China's Xinjiang region. The remains are from Caucasian tribes who migrated to the area centuries ago, providing valuable insights into the cultures of ancient civilizations. Analysis has revealed that the mummies suffered various health issues and had unique DNA profiles.

This 29-year-old skeleton is believed to be from a pre-Hispanic American civilization, dated around 700 CE. Discovered in 1917 in Mexico City, La Doncella exhibits several injuries on her body, possibly indicating a violent death or conflict with other tribes. Her age and injuries suggest she may have been killed in battle.

Dating back to approximately 370 BCE, this Danish skeleton is one of the best-preserved ancient human remains ever discovered. Discovered in 1950, Tollund Man shows evidence of ritualistic practices, including surgical procedures performed before death. His body was found with several marks and scars, possibly indicating a form of sacrifice.

These remain of pre-Columbian mummification techniques have been dated to around 1500 BCE, in present-day Chile. The process involved elaborate rituals, using beeswax and plant resin to preserve the bodies. An analysis has revealed intricate knowledge about medicinal treatments used on these early humans.

Discovered in 1952, this Danish skeleton is from a Viking Age time period (approximately 420 CE). Evidence suggests that Grauballe Man had suffered severe injuries before death, possibly indicating human sacrifice or ritualistic practices. The body's presence provides insight into Norse culture and funerary customs.

Discovered in 2001 in the Alps, this modern natural mummy is around 3,300 years old. Analysis has revealed that the individual suffered from diseases such as malaria and lead poisoning, which likely led to his death. Iceman #1 provides evidence of life in ancient Europe during the Copper Age.

Discovered in 1900s in the Valley of Kings, Egypt, this mummified skeleton dates back to around 1550 BCE. The remains are believed to be of a ritualistic or divine figure, known as Ammit from ancient Egyptian mythology. Analysis reveals unique knowledge about Egyptian funerary practices and mythological entities.

Dated to the early 4th century CE, these Caucasian skeletons were found in modern-day Uzbekistan and Afghanistan. The remains are significant due to their connection with various Silk Road cultures and civilizations. Analysis has shed light on unique cultural traditions of pre-Islamic regions.

Discovered in 1995, this mummified human skeleton dates back around 2,000 BCE, from the Northern Hemisphere. Analysis indicates that her age might be underestimated due to natural processes preserving the remains.

The skeletons found in Cyprus are estimated to date back around 9,500 years, making them some of the oldest known human remains in Europe. These remain provide vital knowledge about pre-agricultural European cultures and life during the Paleolithic era.

Found in Australia's Outback, these ancient skeletons date to between 12,000 to 2,500 years ago. Analysis has revealed they came from various human populations native to this region. They also hold secrets of survival strategies used by early Australians.

Discovered in the 16th century, this remains dates back approximately around 300 CE and provides insights into cultures from ancient civilizations across South America. The mummy holds significant information regarding pre-Columbian medicine, rituals, and funerary practices.

These skeletons were found in present-day Peru and date to the 15th-16th centuries, providing unique knowledge about the lives of people before Spanish conquest. They reveal intricate knowledge of alchemy and herbal medicine.

Dating back around 1,700 BCE, these mummies represent an early stage of ancient Egyptian burial customs. Discovered in 1797, they provide clues to understand what life was like for ancient Egyptians and the significance of elaborate tombs.

Discovered alongside Ötzi, this skeleton is believed to be from a Copper Age time period, approximately 5,300 years old. Analysis suggests that his death may have been caused by an arrow wound. This remains offer significant insight into life during the Copper Age era.

Dated around 2,100 BCE, these skeletons are among the earliest known natural mummies discovered in the Sudan region of Africa. Analysis has provided a window to understanding funerary customs and human burial rituals in ancient Egypt.

Discovered in 1951, this Italian skeleton is from the Neolithic period (approximately around 5,500 years ago). It provides unique insight into pre-agricultural life in Southern Europe.

Dated to around 8,000-9,000 years ago, these remains were discovered in Sweden and represent some of the oldest known human skeletons found outside Asia. The remains reveal clues about life during the Palaeolithic era and significant evidence for European early settlers' lifestyles