Scientists recently conducted a detailed archaeogenetic study, analyzing the remains of more than 700 people from the early Middle Ages.. Findings from burial sites in Mjodling and Leobersdorf, Austria, have revealed new details about the origins and cultural dynamics of the region's ancient populations, Arkeonews writes..

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Study reveals striking genetic differences between these two communities. The people in Leobersdorf had predominantly East Asian genetic markers, while the people in Mjodling were of European ancestry.

Despite their different origins, these groups coexisted for six generations, exchanging cultural practices and burial traditions. This study is part of the European Research Council's HistoGenes project, which focuses on the Avar period of the 8th century AD.. , when the East Asian Steppe communities settled in central-eastern Europe along with the local population.

For decades, the origin of people buried in these places remained a mystery. Whether they were direct descendants of the Avar conquerors, or a mixture of local and newcomer? Genetic analysis of more than 500 graves in Modling and almost 150 in Leobersdorf gave answers to these questions.

The study revealed clear genetic differences that could not identify only archaeological data. Geneticist Ke Wang noted: "

Interestingly, cultural integration was preserved, despite the genetic differences. Historian Walter Paul noted that both communities adopted the Avar identity, sharing a similar way of life and cultural symbols.

Doris Pani-Kuche, an anthropologist, also noted the peaceful nature of this era, saying: "

The study also revealed complex family ties. Researchers reconstructed the genealogy of six generations, noting that most people had common biological ties, but no evidence of inbreeding was found.

Geneticist Zuzana Gofmanova noted: “The large number of genetic connections allowed us to reconstruct modern pedigrees in six generations at each site.”.

Another key discovery was the role of women in these communities. The mothers in Leobersdorf were probably from East Asian regions, while the mothers in Mjodling were of European ancestry.

Despite these differences, both groups maintained their cultural identity, indicating a shared status and mutual respect.

Johannes Krause, director of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, noted the importance of the study, noting: "

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