Novilara necropolis study reveals Iron Age diet and social equality in Italy

Archaeologists have examined the isotopic composition of bones from 148 individuals buried in the 2,700‑year‑old Novilara necropolis in northeastern Italy. The analysis shows that the Iron Age Picene diet was based mainly on meat, cereals and plant foods, with surprisingly little seafood despite the site’s proximity to the Adriatic Sea. Men appear to have had greater access to animal protein than women, indicating a gender‑based dietary divide. However, the study found no significant difference in diet between individuals buried with rich grave goods and those with modest items, suggesting a degree of dietary egalitarianism across social status. The findings align with ancient writings by Pliny the Elder about regional olives, apples, grapes and spelt. Study author Zita Laffranchi of the University of Córdoba said, “The study shows that social inequality cannot be interpreted solely based on the objects placed in graves.” Co‑author Marco Milella of the University of Pisa highlighted the potential of bioarchaeological methods to illuminate identity, mobility and social differences in the past.