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People "on the Margin": A Medieval Cemetery in Český Brod - Malechov (Central Bohemia)

Publication at Faculty of Science, Second Faculty of Medicine |
2017

Abstract

Six graves situated on the edge of the settled town suburb of Český Brod have been dated to the 2nd half of the 15th century. The group of graves situated outside the regular cemetery, and with one exception reverently buried individuals, raised the question regarding its interpretation.

Anthropological study identified six men of different age with many post-traumatic changes on the bones, excessive physical strain and numerous other pathologies. DNA-based examination ruled out the possibility that they were members of minority groups (Jews, Gypsies).

People buried on this site are interpreted as people in a marginal position in contemporary society.