'X' Tombs

[caldrail]

Last night I watced a documentary on BBC2 called Rome's X Tombs, which concerns mass graves discovered under what is now the site of Helena's Mausoleum (Constantines mother). It's a series of rough chambers absolutely jam packed with bodily remains, so many that if the first had not already decomposed, they wouldn't all fit inside.

 

The bodies were wrapped in linen and plaster, reminiscent of north african practice, and many had small personal items buried with them.

 

Who were they? No evidence of violence, but the researchers believe what's been discovered is a burial crypt for disease victims, and quite possibly for those who were members of family relations of the Equites Singulares Augusti, an elite cavalry formation.

 

The presenters and experts refered to this unit as a 'regiment', which is an incorrect designation, but nonethel;ess a fascinating insight into Rome's daily life. An interesting documentary if you get the chance to see it.

Edited July 29, 2013 by caldrail

[GhostOfClayton]

Agreed, Caldrail. Not only fascinating, but a wonderful insight into the kind of detailed archaeological detective work that goes on. To establish the geographical origin of the linen based on microscopic differences in the weave, resulting from whether the weaver was holding the top or bottom of the gizmo was a beautiful bit of sleuthing.

Edited July 31, 2013 by GhostOfClayton