Ancient Egyptian Pet Cemetery: A Window into the Human-Animal Bond
Overview
Nearly 2,000 years ago, in the Roman port city of Berenice, Egypt, animals were treated with remarkable care and respect. A large pet cemetery discovered near the city walls provides fascinating insights into the relationship between humans and animals in ancient Egypt.
The Berenice Pet Cemetery
Excavations of the Berenice pet cemetery have revealed the remains of over 585 animals, primarily cats, dogs, and monkeys. Many of the animals were buried in individual graves, often adorned with collars, necklaces, and other ornamental goods. Some were even covered in textiles or pieces of pottery, resembling a type of sarcophagus.
Animal Care in Ancient Egypt
The burials at Berenice suggest that the ancient Egyptians provided exceptional care for their pets. Analysis of the animals’ remains indicates that they were well-fed and treated for injuries and illnesses. Toothless pets were given special diets to ensure their survival. Older dogs exhibited signs of arthritis and other age-related conditions, suggesting that they were cared for throughout their lives.
Cats: Guardians of the City
Cats were the most common animals buried in the Berenice pet cemetery, accounting for approximately 90% of the burials. They played a crucial role in controlling rodent populations in the city’s storerooms and ships, making them essential for public health and hygiene.
Dogs: Loyal Companions
Dogs made up about 5% of the burials at Berenice. They often lived into old age, despite suffering from various health issues. The presence of grave goods such as collars and necklaces suggests that dogs were highly valued companions.
Monkeys: Exotic Imports
Monkeys, imported from India, were also buried in the Berenice pet cemetery. They likely faced challenges adapting to the unfamiliar environment and died young. However, they were still treated with care and buried with items such as woolen blankets and amphoras.
Unique Burial Practices
Unlike other ancient Egyptian animal burials, the animals at Berenice were not mummified. Their burials do not appear to have served a ritual purpose. Experts speculate that the Berenice humans viewed their animals as companions and family members, rather than objects of religious devotion.
Comparison to Other Ancient Animal Burials
The Berenice pet cemetery differs significantly from other ancient animal burials. In Ashkelon, Israel, a cemetery from the 4th and 5th centuries contains thousands of dog burials, many of them puppies. These animals may have been part of a ritual practice. In Russia, hunter-gatherer groups buried their canine companions with grave goods over 7,000 years ago, suggesting a close bond between humans and animals.
Conclusion
The Berenice pet cemetery provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between humans and animals in ancient Egypt. It reveals that the ancient Egyptians treated their pets with great care and compassion, valuing them as companions, protectors, and members of their families.