Reconstructing the genetic ancestry of the archaeological site in Amiternum: From Roman Imperial to early medieval times in Central Italy

Abstract

Central-southern Italy is pivotal for reconstructing the population history of the peninsula, yet the genetic impact of the complex demographic past in the Abruzzo region remains largely unexplored. This study integrates archaeological context with ancient DNA analysis of 16 individuals excavated at the Cathedral of Santa Maria in Civitate in Amiternum. The sample comprises one adult male from the Roman Imperial period and 15 subadults mainly from the early medieval period. Genome-wide data reveal a sharp genetic discontinuity between the two epochs. The Roman individual mirrors other Italians from the same period, characterized by significant Near Eastern ancestry. In contrast, the early medieval group—genetically homogeneous—clusters with late antique and medieval populations from Central and Southern Italy, showing significant genetic influence from Central and Northern Europe. Overall, the medieval genetic structure differs from the Roman one and closely resembles that of modern Central and Southern Italians.