1,500-Year-Old ‘Square-Shaped Skull’ Discovered in Mexico: Evidence of Deliberate Skull Modification… + Photos

According to the social affairs section of Saed News, citing Faradeed, the discovery involves the remains of a man over 40 years old who lived during the Classic period of Central America, between 400 and 900 CE. His skull, found at the Balcón de Montezuma archaeological site in the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains, exhibits a rare shape. Researchers say this type of deformation, which gives the skull a square appearance, is distinct from other known forms throughout Central America.

Jesús Ernesto Velasco González, a physical anthropologist, explained that the skull belongs to the “tabular erect” type, but its unusually flat top has never before been documented in this region. The square structure results from pressure applied from the back of the head upward, creating a geometric form, unlike the conical shapes common elsewhere.

Scientific Analysis Confirms Local Origins

Velasco González, along with archaeologist Carlos VanUeth Pérez Silva, is leading new investigations at the site through Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). Their project revisits studies conducted in the 1990s, employing updated methods to examine early settlement patterns in the region.

In addition to new excavations, researchers analyzed human remains and reviewed previous collections. They confirmed that this type of cranial modification has not been recorded in northern Huasteca sites. While similar forms have been observed in Veracruz and the Maya region, the version discovered at Balcón de Montezuma shows unique proportions.

A Distinct Central American Skull: Tabular Superior or Cube-Shaped

Stable oxygen isotope analysis indicates that the man with the altered skull was not a migrant. Findings suggest he was born, lived, and died in the same mountainous region.

Velasco González noted, “This discovery rules out direct connections with other areas such as El Zapotal in Veracruz, where similar skulls have been found.”

Cultural Significance of Square Skulls in Ancient Mexico

The practice of cranial modification likely held symbolic or cultural meaning beyond physical appearance. Skull shaping was common in ancient Central America, often signaling identity, social relationships, or individual status. The technique involved applying pressure in childhood using boards, straps, or cradles.

Materials recovered since 2010 have allowed scientists to expand on earlier findings and better understand the cultural connections of this mountainous community. Researchers believe the site maintained ties with the Central Mexican plains and populations extending as far north as present-day United States.