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Scientists Learn Something New About Ötzi the Ancient Iceman Mummy
Europe’s oldest mummy looked different than previously assumed
Back in 1991, hikers in Italy stumbled upon a mummy in the snow near the border of Austria. It turned out that the person died around 5,300 years before. He became known as Ötzi the Iceman after the valley he was discovered in, and fascination with Ötzi spread wide and far as he captured people’s imaginations. Especially after it was revealed that Ötzi didn’t freeze to death as previously assumed but died violently.
Ötzi’s remains have also spurred the scientific field and gifted researchers an exceptional look into ancient Europeans. Every few years, it seems, scientists discover something new about Ötzi, from his diet and clothing to ancestry. Now, experts are learning about his genetics, and new research suggests Ötzi wasn’t fair-skinned or blue-eyed as he’s been portrayed. In fact, he was quite the opposite.
The Discovery
After 5,300 years, Ötzi was discovered by hikers in the Italian Ötztal Alps in 1991. Analysis suggests he likely lived between 3350 and 3105 B.C.E. and was 45 years old when he died. He also had an assortment of rare treasures that lasted the test of time. Not only did he have a full belly and tattoos, but he possessed…
