Cow bone tiled floor found in North Holland – history

During the renovation of a townhouse in Alkmaar, North Holland, a floor partially covered with cow bone “tiles” was discovered. The metacarpals and metatarsals of cattle were used to replace lost and broken terracotta tiles, a mysterious practice that rarely survives and has previously been found only in the Dutch province of North Holland.

All bones are cut to the same height and placed in a pattern where the bones are placed on one plane with the tops facing up and on another plane with the sawed sides of the bones facing up.

The reason for using animal bones on the floor is unknown. Archaeologists speculate that the bones may have been chosen for a specific reason, perhaps related to the trade or activities that were taking place in the building at the time. However, it’s also possible that bones were used as a cheap way to fill gaps in missing tiles.

“The tiles are worn from overuse, and the bones may have been placed there for practical or symbolic reasons,” DeJong said. “They may be perfect for the craft being practiced in the space, or they may be an inexpensive way to finish the floor. Way.”

The building on the Achterdam was built in 1609, but the floors generally date from the 15th century. Archaeologists speculate that it may have been the foundations of an older building left behind when a new house was built. The floor is still being excavated; the team hopes to reveal its original extent and learn more about how it was used. They will also study bones and tiles to determine when the flooring was laid.