Gruesome Discovery Shows 17th-Century Villagers Were Terrified of What Lurked in 'Grave 75'

Live updates

1. 16d ago

   17th-Century Polish "Vampire" Grave Uncovered

   Archaeologists have investigated a 17th-century grave in Poland known as "Grave 75", which contained the remains of a young woman buried with an iron sickle across her neck and a padlock on her toe. The unusual burial suggests the villagers feared she was a vampire. DNA studies are being conducted to learn more about the woman, whose name is believed to be Zosia. The grave was discovered with the sickle placed in a way that would prevent her from rising.

   Why it matters

   This discovery provides insight into the superstitions of 17th-century villagers in Poland. The fear of vampirism was prevalent during this time, and such burials were not uncommon. The investigation into "Grave 75" is helping researchers understand the culture and beliefs of that era.

   What is confirmed

   • The grave, known as "Grave 75", was found in Poland.
   • The woman's remains were buried with an iron sickle across her neck.
   • A padlock was found on her toe.
   • The burial method suggests the villagers feared she was a vampire.

   Still unconfirmed

   • The woman's name is believed to be Zosia.

   What to watch next

   • Results of the DNA study on the woman's remains
   • Further analysis of the burial site for additional clues
   Sources used for this update (5)

   1. Phys.org — Archaeologists investigate a feared young woman's 17th century vampiric grave in Poland
   2. Newser — DNA Study Probes Secrets of Sickle-Bound 'Vampire' Grave
   3. Gizmodo — Meet Zosia, the 17th-Century Vampire Suspect Buried With a Sickle at Her Throat
   4. Smithsonian Magazine — Why Was This 17th-Century Polish Woman Buried With a Padlock on Her Toe and an Iron Sickle Across Her Neck?
   5. ScienceAlert — Gruesome Discovery Shows 17th-Century Villagers Were Terrified of What Lurked in 'Grave 75'
   confidence 90%