Archaeologists have uncovered new evidence that reveals a unique and deliberate form of skull shaping practiced over 1,500 years ago in the mountainous region of northern Mexico. The discovery, made in the Balcón de Montezuma Archaeological Zone, shows that ancient communities in what is now the state of Tamaulipas engaged in a distinct practice of head modification that produced square-shaped skulls — a form not previously seen in this part of the country.
The remains belong to a man believed to have been over 40 years old, who lived during the Classic period between 400 and 900 A.D. His skull exhibits a rare and geometric shape, created by consistent pressure applied during infancy. While cranial modification was widespread across ancient Mesoamerica, this particular form — with its flat, squared-off top — marks a striking variation. Experts say it differs significantly from the more commonly known elongated or cone-shaped skulls found in other regions.
Unique skull shape marks a first in northern Huasteca
Researchers leading the project say the skull reflects a style known as tabular erect — where pressure is applied to shape the head from back to top — but with a previously undocumented flat upper surface. This squared result is unlike similar forms seen in the Veracruz region or among the Maya, where proportions and shaping methods vary.
Jesús Ernesto Velasco González, a physical anthropologist working with Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), noted that this marks the first time such a skull shape has been recorded in the northern Huasteca region. The discovery stems from a renewed investigation of the site that revisits work done in the 1990s, now supported by updated tools and analysis techniques.
Using oxygen isotope testing, researchers confirmed that the man was born and lived his entire life in the same highland area where he was found. This suggests that the skull modification was a local tradition rather than an imported practice from neighboring regions such as Veracruz, where similar skulls have been discovered.
Evidence points to cultural meaning behind skull shaping
Beyond physical appearance, scholars believe that the shaping of skulls held deeper cultural value in ancient Mesoamerican societies. The modifications often began during infancy, using wraps or boards to gradually alter the head’s shape. These changes likely signaled identity, family ties, or social status within the community.
Carlos Vanueth Pérez Silva, an archaeologist also working on the site, emphasized that this form of expression was deeply rooted in cultural belief systems. The renewed excavations, along with artifacts recovered since 2010, are helping researchers draw broader connections between this mountain settlement and other parts of ancient Mesoamerica.
Tonantzin Silva Cárdenas, director of INAH Tamaulipas, stated that findings like these not only confirm the uniqueness of local traditions but also open doors to understanding how isolated communities interacted with others across large distances. Archaeological patterns suggest possible cultural links stretching as far north as what is now the southern United States.
The discovery adds a new layer of insight into the region’s history and the ways in which ancient people shaped their identities — both physically and socially — in a world long before written records.