Archaeologists in Iraq’s Dhi Qar province have uncovered ancient bird burials dating back to 1850 BCE in the marshlands, a UNESCO World Heritage site, an excavation team in the province said.
According to the team, small sealed jars containing bird skeletons were found during excavations at a submerged site linked to the Old Babylonian era.
The discovery suggests birds held spiritual or symbolic significance in Mesopotamian rituals, potentially tied to beliefs about the afterlife or nature.
This unprecedented find sheds light on the cultural and religious practices of ancient southern Iraqi civilizations. Researchers are now conducting DNA analysis and 3D imaging to further understand the burial context.
