Lapa do Santo, Archaeological site and cave in Matozinhos, Brazil
The limestone rock shelter spans 1,300 square meters beneath a 30-meter-high massif in the tropical savannah of the Lagoa Santa region.
Danish naturalist Peter Lund initiated research at the site in the 19th century, discovering human skeletons alongside extinct megafauna in the adjacent Sumidouro Cave.
The location contains 40 human burials featuring diverse practices, including body alterations, decapitation, and evidence of elaborate mortuary ceremonies from 9,400 years ago.
The site operates within the Carste de Lagoa Santa Environmental Protection Area, offering research opportunities and educational programs for studying ancient human settlements.
Excavations revealed the earliest documented case of human decapitation in the Americas, with a skull arranged next to two severed hands.
Location: Matozinhos
Part of: Carste de Lagoa Santa Environmental Protection Area
GPS coordinates: -19.47508,-44.03776
Latest update: March 6, 2025 17:55
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