There are many examples of cruel and bizarre ways that people were put to death in ancient times. Some of the strangest methods of execution are:
- The Brazen Bull: A bronze bull-shaped device that was heated from below and used to roast the victim alive inside. The screams of the victim were converted into sounds resembling a bull’s mooing by a system of pipes.1
- Death by molten metal: A method of burning the victim by pouring molten lead or gold down their throat. This was used in ancient Israel for certain crimes such as incest and adultery.2
- Poena Cullei: A penalty of the sack, where the victim was sewn into a large sack with animals such as snakes, dogs, or monkeys, and then thrown into the river or the sea. This was used in ancient Rome for crimes such as parricide.3
- Execution by elephant: A method of crushing or torturing the victim by trained elephants. This was used in South and Southeast Asia for various crimes and as a display of royal power.4
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- Sawing: A method of cutting the victim in half, either vertically or horizontally, with a large saw. The victim was usually hung upside-down to prolong their agony. This was used in various parts of the world, such as Europe, China, and Persia.2
These are just some of the most brutal execution methods from the ancient world. There are many more examples of how people were killed in gruesome ways throughout history.5
