When it comes to executions, there is no one answer to which was the most barbaric. Throughout history, there have been a number of incredibly brutal and grotesque methods used to put convicted criminals to death. From ancient times to the Middle Ages, execution methods ranged from slow and painful to quick and violent. Here are some of the most barbaric and gruesome ancient and medieval executions.

The Brazen Bull: This execution method was first used by the ancient Greeks. The condemned was placed inside a hollow bronze bull and a fire was lit beneath it. As the victim slowly cooked, their screams echoed through the bull’s horns, creating a horrifically cruel and unusual punishment.

Breaking Wheel: The breaking wheel, also known as the Catherine wheel, was a popular form of punishment during the Middle Ages. The victim was tied to a wheel, usually atop a platform or gallows, and then beaten with a club or iron bar until the wheel was shattered. The broken pieces of the wheel were then used to finish off the victim by crushing the broken bones.

Boiling to Death: Boiling to death was a common form of execution during the Middle Ages. The victim would be slowly lowered into a large pot of boiling water, oil, tar, or other hot liquids, and left to die a slow, excruciatingly painful death.

Crucifixion: One of the most well-known execution methods, crucifixion was used throughout the ancient world. Victims were tied or nailed to a large wooden cross and left to hang until death. It was a slow, painful death, and the victim could take days to finally die.

Drawing and Quartering: This gruesome form of execution was used by the British during the Middle Ages. The condemned was dragged to the gallows and hanged until close to death. Then, they were cut down and disemboweled before being beheaded. Finally, the body was cut into four quarters and the pieces were displayed in public as a warning to others.

Although it is difficult to pick the most barbaric ancient or medieval execution, the methods outlined above are some of the most gruesome and inhumane ways to put a person to death. The ancient and medieval world had no shortage of cruel and unusual punishments, and these methods of execution are a testament to that.