A discovery of a different sort – archaeologists digging around at a stone-age site in Stokke, Norway have stumbled across a 8,000 years old skull. Though no confirmations have been received, the researchers at the site believe the skull to belong to a child who most probably wasn’t more than 10 years old. And if that proves to be the case, this discovery will lead to the oldest residues of the human brain ever found in the realm of archaeology.

In fact, the remnants of the brain-matter is what driving the history community gaga over the unearthing. Gaute Reitan from Oslo’s Museum of Cultural History, headed the excavation team in expectation of finding weapons and tools in the 8,000 years old site. But instead, they fortuitously came across a precariously positioned skull  (pictured above) with what is perceived as ‘historically preserved’ organic matter.

According to the reports, the clay-like organic bit inside the skull had a grayish, spongy texture – which makes the residues all the more likely to be a part of a uniquely preserved brain. Additionally, the archaeologists have also found other bone remains from an adult, which leads to the speculation that the site may indeed be a part of a burial ground.

Now, the question remains – what exactly are the scientists expecting to find from this rare specimen of organic matter? Well, Reitan has gone on to say, how DNA analysis of the brain remnants can provide valuable insights into various parameters, including the identification of the individuals, their geographical extent and even their diet. On further examining, the researchers are also looking forth to unravel other complex issues, like how the said Stone Age community dealt with its presumably evolved religious system and burial rituals.

Via: TheBlaze