10 Ancient Body Modification Practices

Piercings are a highly popular trend in modern times, but have a very long history. In addition to his tattoos, Ötzi the Iceman also had pierced ears with earrings, meaning the practice was around already 5,500 years ago.

In Mesoamerica, it is believed that the Olmec men would have plugs put in to their cheeks and expand them as they got older. Aztec men also had lip-, ear- and nose-plugs, though there were strict rules about them. The king and nobles could wear piercings made from gold and precious stones, while lower classes had to use bone. Successes in warfare allowed men to wear bigger and bigger lip rings.

Earrings were popular in Ancient Egypt; King Tut used them in the 14th century BC, and they have been found on many other mummies. However, belly button piercings were reserved for the pharaoh only and anyone else who got one would be executed.