An Analysis of a Perplexing Group of Graves from Ancient Corinth, Greece

Abstract

In 2019 a post-12th century C.E. cemetery was identified at Ancient Corinth, Greece, in the area northeast of the ancient theatre. The 2019 and 2022 excavation season uncovered a perplexing group of graves with limited cultural context and an unknown date of usage. Ten adults, and one juvenile were excavated from this cemetery. The age-at-death of the adults range from 18-45 years. The juvenile was between the ages of 12-15 years. Ten shallow pit graves, and one cist grave with evidence of reuse indicate this cemetery was used on multiple occasions. In addition, in 2022, two infants were unexpectedly discovered high up in the remains of a Roman building, ~50 metres to the south of the NET Cemetery where the excavation of a Roman road was taking place. This thesis is a pilot study, providing the first analysis of the 13 individuals buried here. The goal of this research is to interpret the funerary practices performed by the living through the discussion of grave styles and treatment of the body, and to analyze the paleopathological data. Results of this study indicate the burial practices reflect Christian traditions, with their heads facing east to anticipate the second coming of Christ. Reuse of the cist grave indicates the living were aware of the location of the cemetery, and may have been members of the same community or social group. Pathological analysis of the adults indicate lifestyles associated with strenuous activities. Linear enamel hypoplasia (LEH) speaks to some individuals having experienced non-specific periods of stress in their childhood. Evidence for tuberculosis and brucellosis was present in two different adult males, and evidence for scurvy was identified in the two juveniles. This research presents the first skeletal cases of tuberculosis and scurvy from Ancient Corinth.