Archaeologists in Vienna, Austria have uncovered a Roman-era mass grave containing the remains of around 150 individuals who met violent deaths.
The individuals were buried without any discernible order or orientation. Initial anthropological examinations identified them as exclusively male, predominantly between 20 and 30 years of age, mostly over 175cm tall, with few signs of infectious diseases, and exhibiting very good dental health. The cause of death was determined to be injuries from weapons such as spears, daggers, swords and projectiles.
The numerous and varied injuries indicate combat. According to archaeologist Michaela Binder, the absence of women, children, or signs of disease rules out hospital or epidemic explanations. Military artefacts were also recovered, including a dagger, pieces of scale armour, a helmet cheek piece and spearheads.
Dating evidence, including decorative…