Unearthed: Alkmaar's bone-filled floors reveal 15th century craft

In Alkmaar, in northern Holland, archaeologists discovered the remnants of a tiled floor. This would not be particularly sensational, but part of it was constructed from animal bones. The discovery occurred during renovation work on a 17th-century building on Achterdam Street.

During their research, archaeologists found that the floor comprised cattle limb bones that filled the gaps between old tiles. The bones were meticulously cut to the same height, forming a pattern. Some were arranged vertically, while others were laid flat.

"We were very happy to have the chance to see this bone floor with our own eyes. It is always a privilege to uncover something from a long-gone era and add new information to the history of Alkmaar," acknowledged Nancy de Jong, one of the archaeologists, as quoted by arkeonews.net.

Floors made from bones are rare, but this is not the first such discovery in northern Holland. Similar floors were previously uncovered in Hoorn, Enkhuizen, and Edam. In Hoorn, bones were also used together with tiles.

The exact date when the floor was originally made remains uncertain, but it probably dates back to the 15th century. The present building was constructed around 1609, suggesting it might rest on the foundations of an earlier structure.

Archaeologists will continue their investigations. According to scientists, the use of animal bones was not linked to practices of black magic or specific rituals. Most likely, it was practical and could be related to activities carried out on a farm. – The inclusion of bones could have been a cost-effective solution, or they may have served a purpose related to the trade or activity conducted here – emphasised Nancy de Jong.

The discovery is significant for city heritage officials interested in its historical importance.