Archaeologists Discover Gore Pit at Waterloo

Recent excavations at the Mont-Saint-Jean farm in Belgium, the site of the Duke of Wellington's field hospital during the 1815 Battle of Waterloo, have uncovered a unique trench filled with human and animal remains. This trench, believed to have been designed for quickly clearing the hospital of gore, features a barrier of ammunition boxes separating the remains. Among the findings are the remains of an ox, at least seven horses—some butchered and three euthanized—and a pile of amputated human limbs. Archaeological director Professor Tony Pollard described the site as 'truly unique' in Napoleonic archaeology, indicating that those who buried the individuals attempted to offer dignity amidst the chaos. The excavation is part of a program by Waterloo Uncovered, which allows veterans to participate in archaeology while receiving support. The ongoing work aims to shed light on the fates of thousands who perished in the battle.