13th-Century Skeleton Found in Milan Reveals Brutal Medieval Execution Method
Archaeologists have uncovered a 13th-century skeleton in Milan, Italy, that sheds light on a particularly gruesome execution method used during the Middle Ages. The remains, belonging to a young male aged between 17 and 20, were discovered near a church and show signs of severe trauma consistent with the “breaking wheel” execution technique.
Uncovering the Past
The excavation was led by researchers from the University of Milan and detailed in a study published in the Journal of Archaeological Science. The bones exhibited systematic injuries across various parts of the body, indicating deliberate and methodical torture rather than accidental trauma.
The Breaking Wheel Execution
The “breaking wheel,” also known as the “Catherine wheel,” was a notorious execution method in medieval Europe. Victims were subjected to severe physical trauma, including broken limbs, which were then threaded through the spokes of a large wooden wheel. The wheel was often displayed publicly as a grim spectacle.
Public Display and Aftermath
After the victim was secured to the wheel, further torturous acts were inflicted, such as burning or whipping. The individual was then left to die, often displayed publicly for days as a deterrent to others. This method was typically reserved for those accused of serious crimes, including heresy or spreading disease.
Historical Context
In northern Italy, particularly during times of plague outbreaks, the breaking wheel execution was used against individuals suspected of causing or spreading the disease. The brutal nature of this punishment reflects the harsh judicial practices of the era.
Conclusion
The discovery of this skeleton offers a chilling glimpse into the past, highlighting the extreme measures once taken to enforce social order. It serves as a reminder of the evolution of justice and the importance of humane treatment in modern legal systems.
