Travels in Italy--Bolzano (Part 3 of 4) --UPDATED

Bolzano's South Tyrol Arhaeology Museum is today the home of the "Iceman", the amazing Ötzi.  Who is Ötzi?

Ötzi lived near Bolzano about 5,000 years.  In 1991, two hikers discovered his mummified body partially encased in ice.  The location was the  Ötztal Alps on the Austrian-Italian border, hence the man was dubbed Ötzi.  (The two countries hotly disputed the ownership of Ötzi.  The Italians eventually prevailed when it was proved he was located slightly on the Italian side of the border.  Of course, the Austrians were unhappy with the outcome, especially they believe the entire region should still be part of Austria.)   

The museum houses Ötzi's body, along with many artifacts found with his body.  Below is a borrowed photo, since we were not allowed to take a photo of the body.  The body s kept in a cooler and is automatically sprayed to keep it wet to avoid further decay. 

Here are some fun facts about Ötzi:

• Ötzi lived around 3,300 B.C. 
• Ötzi lived to the age of 45 years.  He was an old man for his time. 
• He was about average height, 5' 3'', and weighed a lean 110 lbs.  .
• Ötzi's body has tattoos, a lot of tattoos, 61 in all.  The tattoos are believed to be therapeutic, not decorative.  The tattoos were intended to cure pains and ailments that Ötzi suffered. 
• Ötzi was genetically predisposed to cardiovascular disease, which manifested itself in the form of arteriosclerosis.
• He was probably lactose intolerant.
• Researchers believe he died due to an arrow and other wounds.  (Of course, this theory has been sensationalized by claiming Otzi was murdered.  We smell a CSI episode.)   

What might have Ötzi looked like?  Check out the photos below. 

In the photo below, Ötzi seems to be looking at the random hottie standing in front of him.  Can you blame him?

If you noticed a resemblance between Ötzi and the random hottie, you are very perceptive.  Surprisingly, they have a similar genetic profile.  Who knew?

Ötzi's genetic profile

To learn ore about Ötzi, click here. 

UPDATE (9/10/2018):  According to SmithsonianMag.com, a recent study concludes the Ötzi's many tattoos and the herbs found with his body reveal Ötzi and his people had developed medical practices to relieve pain and treat illnesses.  You can learn more by clicking here. 

Next Up:  Street art in Bolzano