What a newly discovered mass grave tells us about the ancient Romans
Archaeologists work at a newly discovered mass grave in Vienna, Austria
Construction workers have discovered a Roman-era mass grave under a Vienna football field, containing at least 129 skeletons, likely of warriors.
The remains, dating back to the 1st century AD, show signs of brutal battle injuries, suggesting a large-scale conflict, possibly involving Germanic tribes.
This discovery is unique as Roman soldiers were typically cremated – not buried –during this period.
Analysis of artifacts, including weapons and armor, suggests the battle occurred between 80 and 130 AD, and was potentially linked to Emperor Domitian's Danube campaigns.
Further DNA and isotope analysis is planned to identify the warriors and their origins, shedding more light on the early history of Austria.