Most of the skeletons found at the site date back to the 18th century, with some burials dating back to the Middle Ages. Bioarchaeologist Martin Malve said that after the Great Northern War and the arrival of Russian troops in Tartu, not only soldiers, but also their families and craftsmen lived here. He noted that they were the ones who could have used this cemetery.
One of the findings was a common grave with the remains of five or six young men. It is assumed that they were victims of the epidemic. In addition, archaeologists found Orthodox crosses and coins dating back to 1740. Despite the reasonably good condition of the coffin boards, the bones were badly destroyed due to the acidity of the soil.
Scientists want to conduct laboratory tests to learn more about the health, diet and diseases of the inhabitants of that time, including syphilis and tuberculosis. Work at the site continues, writes the portal ERR.
Earlier in South Africa found an ancient use for ochre.