In brief
Excavations of a mass grave in Croatia have led scientists to identify the remains of seven ancient Roman soldiers, all believed to be aged between 36 and 50 years old. Found in the Roman city of Mursa (modern-day Osijek), the skeletons showed various injuries, indicative of a tumultuous life filled with conflict. DNA analysis disclosed that these men were taller-than-average and primarily consumed a vegetarian diet. The discoveries shed light on the conditions faced during the violent 'Crisis of the Third Century' and the methods of burial in ancient Rome.
Scientists say seven skeletons found in a mass grave in Croatia were most likely Roman soldiers who lived 1,700 years ago. The male skeletons, all with various injuries, were found completely preserved during excavations in 2011 at the site of the Roman city of Mursa - modern-day Osijek - in Croatia's far east, a new research paper says.Mursa was conquered by the Romans during the first century BC and became a large settlement that was also an important centre for trade and craft. Now, researchers from several European archaeological institutions have been able to determine not only when the men lived but also how they may have died.According to the paper, the men in the grave were aged between 36-50 years old, taller-than-average in height, and were robust individuals. Their diets were mainly vegetarian, but some had also indulged in a little meat and seafood. All showed various healed and unhealed injuries, including those caused by blunt force trauma, and there were puncture wounds on two of their torsos, which the scientists believe were likely caused by arrows or spear tips.All of the men were suffering from some kind of pulmonary disease during the final days of their lives. DNA analysis has also revealed the men had a mix of ancestry and that none appeared to be from the local area.The paper noted that the Roman Empire was a particularly violent era and that Mursa was involved in several conflicts. The researchers believe the men were likely victims of the 'Crisis of the Third Century', most probably the battle of Mursa from 260 CE, marked by numerous battles fought between various claimants to the throne.The paper states that the pit where the skeletons were found would have originally been a water well - several of which have been discovered in the area. It notes that mass burials and graves were not a customary way of interring the dead in the Roman Empire and were primarily used in extreme situations and mass casualty events. Given the various angles the skeletons now lie, the researchers say they were most probably thrown in the well before being covered with soil.Mursa has been of archaeological importance for years, with various ancient civilization sites discovered in the area.
