17th-Century 'Vampire' Burial in Poland: Padlock and Sickle Found on Woman's Remains

In the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, researchers in Poland have revealed their findings regarding a 17th-century female burial unearthed in 2022 in Pień. Known as 'Zosia', the woman was laid to rest with an iron sickle placed across her throat and a triangular padlock on her big toe, believed to deter her resurrection. The investigation, spearheaded by Dariusz Poliński from Nicolaus Copernicus University, indicates that the community perceived Zosia as a menace, attributing ailments and famine to her. Designated as Grave 75, this burial is among more than a dozen remarkable interments within 101 examined at the site, including a child buried facedown with a padlock. Evidence of silk and gold thread on Zosia’s skull suggests her noble status, while traces of copper, manganese, and gold imply an object was inserted into her mouth or nose. The cemetery might have served as a burial ground for the impoverished or ostracized. The study raises questions about her origins and cause of death. In 2024, sculptor Oscar D. Nilsson revealed a 3D facial reconstruction portraying Zosia as a young woman with light brown hair and blue eyes. The term 'anti-vampiric' is used with caution, as the vampire concept gained popularity in Europe only in the 18th century; during the 17th century, such burials were reserved for those deemed 'demonic' or outsiders.