Mortuary Practices in the First Iron Age Romanian Frontier

Abstract

This chapter presents the bioarchaeological and zooarchaeological analysis of the Iron Age remains Măgura Uroiului. A combined analysis of this assemblage using similar methodologies allows for a fuller understanding of mortuary ritual at the site. Data indicate that mortuary activity of the First Iron Age in Transylvania was complex, and that the burials described were likely deposited intentionally as a part of the construction of the Măgura Uroiului monument. Ritual activities included feasting, animal sacrifices, and monument construction. This analysis provides data to begin to understand this time period and region.