Surprising discoveries: research reveals the intricate connections of medieval communities (photo)

Recently, scientists conducted a detailed archaeogenetic study, analyzing the remains of over 700 individuals from the early Middle Ages. The findings, based on burials in Mödling and Leobersdorf, Austria, revealed new insights into the origins and cultural dynamics of the ancient population in the region, writes Arkeonews.

The research uncovered striking genetic differences between these two communities. People in Leobersdorf predominantly exhibited East Asian genetic markers, while the inhabitants of Mödling were of European descent.

Despite their differing origins, these groups coexisted for six generations, exchanging cultural practices and burial traditions. This study is part of the European Research Council project "HistoGenes," which focuses on the Avar period of the 8th century AD, when East Asian steppe communities settled in Central-Eastern Europe alongside the local population.

For decades, the origins of the people buried in these sites remained a mystery. Were they direct descendants of the Avar conquerors, or a mix of local and incoming populations? Genetic analysis of over 500 graves in Mödling and nearly 150 in Leobersdorf provided answers to these questions.

The study revealed clear genetic distinctions that could not be identified by archaeological data alone. Geneticist Ke Wang noted: "The genetic difference between these groups was very clear and consistent for most individuals at these sites."

Interestingly, cultural integration persisted despite genetic differences. Historian Walter Pohl remarked that both communities adopted Avar identity, sharing a similar lifestyle and cultural symbols.

Doris Pani-Kuchera, an anthropologist, also highlighted the peaceful nature of this era, stating: "We found no battle injuries on the skeletons, and there are almost no signs of defects."

The research also revealed complex familial relationships. Researchers reconstructed family trees spanning six generations, noting that most individuals had common biological ties, yet no evidence of inbreeding was found.

Geneticist Zuzana Hofmanova noted: "The large number of genetic connections allowed us to reconstruct contemporary pedigrees across six generations at each site."

Another key finding was the role of women in these communities. Mothers in Leobersdorf likely hailed from East Asian regions, while mothers in Mödling had European roots. Despite these differences, both groups maintained their cultural identity, indicating a shared status and mutual respect.

Johannes Krause, director of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, emphasized the significance of the study, stating: "The Mödling burial is one of the largest ever analyzed genetically, and such findings hold great potential for future research across various disciplines."

Additionally, we reported on the "rhino" beneath the highway. Archaeologists discovered a 1500-year-old Roman-era stone coffin weighing 750 kilograms.