Mortuary cave
Type of burial place
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Definition
A mortuary cave or a mortuary sinkhole, alternately known as burial cave, burial sinkhole, or crevice interment, is a naturally formed cavity in the earth that is intentionally used for the placement of human remains. Unlike constructed tombs or graves, mortuary caves utilize pre-existing geological formation such as limestone caves, sinkholes and rock fissures. Using archeological evidence, Mortuary Caves[1] demonstrated to be used across multiple continents and time periods, ranging from prehistoric contexts to historic events. These sites are of particular importance in archaeology, due to cave environments often preserving human remains and associated artifacts more effectively compared to open-air burial sites, while also providing strong ties to cultural and ritualistic practice surrounding death.[2]
Archaeological Context and Preservation
Mortuary caves are most commonly found in karst landscapes, where soluble rock such as limestone, tend to form caves and sinkholes. Because these natural cavities are already present in the landscape, not requiring construction for their burial sites. Archaeological are able to distinguish mortuary caves from accidental cave deaths or natural deposition by examining the arrange of skeletal remains, the presence of burial bundles, and associated burial artifacts such as tools, ornaments or textiles.[1]
Environmental conditions within caves can contributes to is notable preservation of remains and artifacts. Providing stable temperatures, limited sunlight, and reduced disturbance may slow decomposition, allowing organic materials to survive longer. At the Bering Sinkhole in Texas, archeologists recovered the remains of multiple individuals along with associated artifacts, demonstrating a repeated and intentional mortuary use over an extended time period.[3]
Geographic Distribution and Cultural Significance.
Mortuary caves and sinkholes have been documented in several regions of North America.
Texas
In Texas,[4] a number of known Paleoindian mortuary sinkholes have been identified, including the Bering Sinkhole.[3][5]
Virginia
In Virginia,[6] Mortuary caves such as the Bull Thistle Cave Archaeological Site containing human remains recovered from cave shafts and chambers, reflecting burial practices and rituals during the Woodland-period.
Alaska
Mortary caves use has also been documented in Alaska. In the Western Aleutian islands[7], Archaeologist identified a burial cave containing human remains and artifacts. Radiocarbon dating and analysis of the skeletal remains indicated intentional placement with the cave, solely for mortuary purposes. Providing insight into the indigenous burial traditions located in subarctic environments.
Hawaii
In Hawaii, cultural resources surveys conducted at Kalaeloa Heritage Park[8] documented skeletal remains residing within natural sinkholes, indicating their use of a burial method during Pre-Colonial Hawaii.
Historical Period: Civil War
During the American Civil War, the bodies of 30 Union soldiers that killed at the Battle of Wilson's Creek, were temporarily placed in a natural sinkhole, which were later being relocated to Springfield National Cemetery.[9]
