Tumulus: meaning, definitions and examples
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tumulus
[ ˈtjuːmələs ]
archaeological site
A tumulus is an artificial mound of earth and stones built over a grave or graves, often found in burial practices. These structures, also known as barrows, mounds, or burial mounds, can vary in size and shape, depending on the culture and time period. Tumuli are often associated with ancient burial rites and can contain one or more burial chambers.
Synonyms
barrow, burial site, grave, mound.
Examples of usage
- The archaeologists discovered a tumulus in the forest.
- Ancient cultures often constructed tumuli as burial sites.
- The large tumulus on the hill was a significant archaeological find.
Etymology
The word 'tumulus' originates from the Latin word 'tumulus', meaning 'mound' or 'hillock'. This term was adopted in the English language during the Renaissance when interest in classical antiquity was revived. Tumuli have been constructed by various cultures throughout history, ranging from prehistoric societies to more advanced civilizations, as a means of ritualistic burial. Often, tumuli were used as markers for the deceased, serving both as a memorial and a guide for the living. The practice of creating these mounds can be traced back to Neolithic times, and similar structures have been found across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, highlighting the universal human practice of commemorating the dead.