A recent archaeological find has brought to light one of the most terrifying instruments in European history: the torture masks known as “Soyjak”. Dating back more than 200 years, these macabre pieces, made from German copper, reveal disturbing details about the brutal torture practices employed in centuries past.

The discovery took place in an old cellar of a mansion in the Bavaria region of Germany. During a restoration of the building, archaeologists found a series of copper masks carefully stored in wooden chests. According to experts, these masks, known as “Soyjak” for their peculiar facial design that exaggerates human expressions, were used in methods of psychological and physical torture to punish political dissidents, criminals and people considered heretics.

The predominant material for these masks, German copper, was selected for its strength and the ease with which it could be molded to fit the victim’s face. The masks were often heated or otherwise modified to increase the suffering.

According to historical records and early research, these masks were not only a symbol of public humiliation, but were also part of extremely cruel torture methods. Written accounts from the time mention that the masks were used in conjunction with other tools, such as chains and shackles, to inflict unbearable pain.

In some cases, the masks were designed with internal spikes that slowly pierced the wearer’s skin. In others, they had mechanisms that restricted breathing or caused gradual suffocation. “It was a punishment designed to be both physical and psychological. The victims not only suffered pain, but also extreme public humiliation, as they were often paraded with the masks on in squares or markets,” explains German historian Anna Fischer, who led the study of the find.

The use of these masks dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries, a time marked by political conflicts and religious tensions in Europe. During this period, many local governments implemented brutal methods to impose order and suppress any form of dissent.

The “Soyjak” design of the masks, characterized by an exaggerated expression of shock or mockery, may have had an additional purpose: to dehumanize the victims, reducing them to objects of ridicule and contempt. This reflects how the authorities of the time used grotesque humor as a form of social control.

The discovery of the masks has sparked intense debate among historians and human rights activists. While some experts see the find as an opportunity to better understand inhuman practices of the past, others criticize the romanticization or public display of such artifacts.

“These objects should serve as a reminder of the horrors that humanity has been capable of committing. We should not glorify them, but learn from them to prevent them from happening again,” says social activist Clara Mendez.

On the other hand, several European museums have already expressed interest in acquiring the masks for their collections, arguing that they are pieces of great historical value. However, controversy persists over how they should be presented to the public, especially at a time when discussions about the ethics of displaying historical artefacts are at the centre of cultural debate.

The masks are currently being analyzed by an interdisciplinary team of archaeologists, metallurgists and historians. Preliminary studies aim to determine more precisely how they were made, who used them and how many people were victims of these tools of torture.

In addition, researchers hope that this find will spur further interest in exploring other historical sites that might contain similar objects. “It is crucial that we continue to unearth these dark chapters of our history, not to glorify suffering, but to shed light on the lessons they can teach us,” Fischer concludes.

The discovery of the Soyjak torture masks confronts us with an uncomfortable reality: the past is full of examples of human cruelty. By unearthing these relics, we have the opportunity to reflect on how to build a more just and humane future.