Mexico: Discovery of a strange boat containing “unique” human bones

The research team identified the remains of the boat as a traditional style known as a “tipari,” which is believed to predate the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors by centuries, although the age of this wreck remains uncertain.

The boat appears to have sunk with its cargo (mostly firewood), which was probably being shipped to Janitsio Island from Irungarikuaro.

Researchers found numerous ceramic and stone tools, believed to have been thrown into the lake during pre-Hispanic times, according to La Brújula Verde magazine.

The excavation and conservation team with Mexico’s official National Institute of Anthropology and History, or INAH, reported the discovery for the first time, revealing incised marks on human bones, bearing grisly inscriptions “whose purpose is currently unknown.”

Bones discovered in the wreckage might provide valuable information regarding “the practices of ancient civilizations that inhabited the area at that time.”

INAH’s excavation project director, José Luis Ponzo, agreed with the institute’s assessment that the bones were “unique” in how well preserved they were.

INAH experts will conduct further analysis on the boat to more specifically determine its date of manufacture and historical value.

While INAH has not released photos or details regarding the additional shipwrecks, the institute has indicated that its plan is to preserve these artifacts for a “community museum on Janitsio Island.”

Source: Daily Mail