Recent findings have dramatically altered our understanding of Arsinoë IV, Cleopatra’s sister. A skull once thought to belong to her, discovered in a sarcophagus in Ephesos, Turkey, has instead been identified as that of a young boy. Research indicates that this child was likely between 11 and 14 years old at the time of death and may have suffered from a developmental disorder.

The story dates back to 1929 when Josef Keil unearthed the sarcophagus in the ruins of a structure known as the “Octagon.” Keil transported the skull to Germany, initially believing it belonged to a 20-year-old woman of noble heritage. Later, in 1982, additional skeletal remains were found, reigniting speculation about the identity of the remains and the possibility of them belonging to Arsinoë IV. However, modern scientific techniques have now clarified the narrative.

Using advanced micro-CT imaging and genetic analysis, researchers determined that the skull dates back to between 36 and 205 BCE, which is consistent with the timeline for Arsinoë IV. However, the unexpected twist is that the skull belonged to a young boy who possessed a Y chromosome. Further investigation revealed characteristics of a growth disorder, potentially linked to vitamin-D deficiency or a genetic syndrome.

This intriguing revelation not only raises questions about the architectural parallels between the Octagon and ancient Egyptian structures but also leaves us pondering the fate of the real Arsinoë IV. While the mystery persists, one fact is clear: the story behind this ancient burial site is far more fascinating than any fiction. The findings, published in Scientific Reports, unveil a previously unrecognized individual and pave the way for further archaeological inquiries.