Excavation of ancient tombs, discovered two sets of remains embracing each other for 1,600 years
Two sets of remains in an embracing position were found in a tomb dating from the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534) more than 1,600 years ago.
The tomb was excavated in 2020 in Datong city, Shanxi province, northern China. Two sets of remains were placed in coffins buried under a grave.
The male skeleton wrapped his arms around his lover’s waist while the woman leaned against his chest, resting her head on his shoulder. The researchers also found a silver ring on the ring finger of the woman’s left hand.
Excavation of ancient tombs, discovered two sets of remains embracing each other for 1,600 years – 1
Couple hugging in ancient tomb. (Photo: Xinhua News Agency)
Further analysis of the skeletons revealed an unhealed infected wound on the man’s right arm. Scientists believe this is evidence that both may have committed suicide.
Previous excavations have found lovers embracing each other in tombs from the Northern Wei period, but such well-preserved tombs are quite rare.
The ancient Datong area was a major intersection of cultures. The ring on a woman’s hand can be a sign of love or marriage, not just a mere jewelry.