Ötzi the Iceman: New Insights from South Tyrol Museum Interview

The South Tyrol Archaeological Museum in Bolzano, Italy, shared new details about Ötzi the Iceman, Europe's oldest natural mummy, discovered in 1991 in the Ötzal Alps. Ötzi lived between 3350 and 3105 BC and died violently from an arrowhead wound to his left shoulder. His copper axe, a high-status object, was left at the scene, puzzling archaeologists. Ötzi has 61 tattoos, likely therapeutic, made by rubbing soot into incisions. His genome (2012 and 2023 studies) reveals dark skin, dark eyes, balding, lactose intolerance, and genetic risks for cardiovascular disease. He stood 1.60 m tall, weighed 50 kg, and wore a purpose-built outfit including bearskin-soled shoes, goatskin coat and leggings, sheep loincloth, brown bear hat, and grass cloak. His clothing and gear indicate he was a skilled Alpine hunter with Copper Age traits like herding and metallurgy. The museum preserves him at -6°C and 99% RH. His exposure in 1991 followed a warm summer, highlighting glacier retreat due to climate change.