What's Happening?
A study has identified seven skeletons found in a mass grave in Croatia as Roman soldiers from 1,700 years ago. Discovered in 2011 at the site of the Roman city of Mursa, the skeletons showed various injuries,
including blunt force trauma and puncture wounds likely from arrows or spears. The men, aged 36-50, were robust and taller-than-average, with mainly vegetarian diets. DNA analysis revealed mixed ancestry, suggesting they were not local. The grave, originally a water-well, indicates a mass casualty event, possibly linked to the 'Crisis of the Third Century'.
Why It's Important?
This discovery provides valuable insights into the Roman Empire's history, particularly during the 'Crisis of the Third Century', a period marked by political instability and conflict. The findings highlight the violent nature of the era and the use of mass graves in extreme situations. Understanding the soldiers' origins and the circumstances of their deaths can shed light on the broader historical context of Roman military and societal practices. This research contributes to the knowledge of ancient Roman military history and the impact of historical conflicts on local populations.
