trebuchet

Researchers have identified Skeleton 150, believed to be the first confirmed victim of a trebuchet, unearthed during excavations beneath Stirling Castle in Scotland in 1997. This skeleton is part of a collection dating back to the 1300s and shows signs of violent death, including distinct cut marks, puncture wounds, and blunt force trauma. Dr. Buckberry from Historic Environment Scotland presented findings indicating that the unusual burial location beneath the castle chapel suggests these individuals may have died during sieges in the late 13th century. Stirling Castle was a strategic stronghold that fell to Edward I's armies after a siege in 1304, during which the largest trebuchet, "The War Wolf," was used. Dr. Buckberry noted that the extensive damage to Skeleton 150 indicates the individual was likely killed by a siege engine.