The Necropolis Potzneusiedl (Burgenland)

This publication presents the first comprehensive analysis of an early Roman necropolis discovered in 2011 during preparatory work for a wind turbine in Burgenland, Austria. The burial site, comprising 31 inhumations and cremations, offers unique insights into the funerary practices and lifestyles of a local community in the contact zone between northern and southern Danubian traditions—predating the Roman military presence. Of particular significance are inhumations from the early 1st century AD, whose grave goods, such as brooches and belts, clearly deviate from Roman customs. The catalogue and text sections provide a detailed analysis of grave goods and features, richly illustrated with plates documenting the finds. Highlights include the most complete Noric-Pannonian belt of a buried woman found to date, and glass beads likely belonging to a regional headdress. The previously scarcely documented "Noric-Pannonian costume" is here reconstructed for the first time in a broader context, offering insights into the clothing and burial traditions of a local population. In addition to the archaeological evaluation, scientific analyses were conducted: animal bones and botanical remains provide information on the use of woods and animal offerings. Genetic and anthropological studies confirm that the buried individuals belonged predominantly to a local group. A spectacular discovery is the detection of leprosy in Grave 78, representing the oldest known case in Europe. The pathological findings suggest that the deceased, despite her severe illness, was firmly integrated into her social environment. This interdisciplinary work contributes a crucial piece to the holistic reconstruction of pre-Roman life and burial traditions in northwestern Pannonia and represents a valuable addition to the archaeology of the early Roman period.