Boy died ‘alone in the cold’ 500 years ago

Forensic analysis of a skeleton discovered in a cave in the Burren in 2011 is believed to be that of a teenage boy who may have died up to 500 years ago.

The human skull was discovered by cavers at Moneen outside Ballyvaughan and prompted a rescue archaeological excavation funded by the National Monuments Service of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural, and Gaeltacht Affairs.

The full scientific investigations of the skeleton have just been published, revealing the remains are that of someone who had died aged 14-16. There was evidence of stunted growth, almost certainly a result of malnutrition and hunger. He was 1.24m tall.