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1st-Century Roman Mass Grave Unearthed in Vienna Linked to Military Conflict

Archaeologists confirm the grave contains over 150 individuals, shedding light on a catastrophic battle and unusual burial practices in Roman history.

  • The mass grave, discovered during construction in Vienna's Simmering district, dates back to 80-130 A.D. and is linked to a violent military event.
  • Archaeologists identified over 150 male skeletons, aged 20 to 30, all showing signs of battlefield injuries caused by swords, lances, and blunt trauma.
  • The burial challenges Roman norms of the period, as cremation was the standard practice until the 3rd century, making this find extremely rare.
  • The grave may be connected to Emperor Domitian's Danube campaigns (86-96 A.D.), though further research is required to confirm this theory.
  • DNA and isotope analysis are planned to identify the fighters and their affiliations, with only one individual confirmed as a Roman warrior so far.
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