Why is it so rare and random to find pyre sites? Two cremation experiments to understand the characteristics of pyre sites and their investigational possibilities
Why is it so rare and random to find pyre sites? Two cremation experiments to understand the characteristics of pyre sites and their investigational possibilities

Summary/Abstract: The cremation rite is well-defined in space and time as it is the central part of a series of complex ritualevents. Although it is one of the most significant and representative elements of the funeral, yet we knowvery little about it due to its destructive nature, the scarcity of pyre sites and the indirect character of crematedbones and artefacts found in graves. The two experimental cremations presented in this article, onthe one hand, address this rare occurrence of pyre sites. On the other hand, by the detailed documentationof the cremation process and the formation of pyre sites, it is possible to examine in detail several new issuesrelated to the pyre sites. Thus, the shape, orientation, dimension, and structure of the funeral pyre, aswell as some moments of the cremation are discussed in detail. Furthermore, the representation of the bodyand pyre goods after the pyre’s burndown, the movement of artefacts during burning, and the watering ofpyre remains, as well as the problem of the mixture are also examined. At the same time, the experimentalobservations also draw attention, besides the investigational possibilities, to the archaeological limitationsof pyre sites.

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