Histological and stable isotope analysis of archeological bones from St. Rombout's cemetery (Mechelen, Belgium): Intrasite, intraindividual, and intrabone variability

This study compares histological preservation in archeological bones from different burial types to unravel the histotaphonomy-to-funerary practices relationship. ?n intraskeletal approach is also adopted explore intraindividual (inner ear part of petrous bone vs. upper/lower limb long bones) and intrabone (proximal distal diaphysis) variability collagen preservation, ?13C, ?15N. The aim (a) target that likely retain higher amounts collagen, (b) better understand inner isotopic signature remodeling, (c) assess homogeneity. For analysis, data have been collected 61 specimens (20 individuals) medieval/postmedieval cemetery St. Rombout, Belgium. Thin sections studied using optical scanning electron microscopy. data, 101 samples 21 individuals. Distinct patterns are observed only single coffin burials; however, histology can display variability, which important account for interpretations. Collagen wt.%, ?15N show significant differences but insignificant variability. confirms extraordinary nature bone, as ?13C values reflect dietary input first approximately 2–3 years life.