Rising from the ashes: A multi-technique analytical approach to determine cremation. A case study from a Middle Neolithic burial in Sardinia (Italy)

Abstract

This study presents a multidisciplinary approach to identifying the degree and the patterns of thermal alterations of bones from collective burials. Archaeological practice is combined with the integrated application of spectrophotometry, XRF and FTIR-ATR analysis of human remains from a Middle Neolithic burial at Su Forru de is Sinzurreddus cave (Sardinia, Italy). This approach has shown to be effective to assess the intentionality, and reconstructing the modality, of body cremation. This is the most ancient case of cremation in Sardinia, which reflects a cultural change in the symbolic attitude and suggests interaction with contemporary groups in northern Italy.