Bioarchaeological profiling and digital facial reconstruction of individual no. 95 from Mohacs mass grave 3

Abstract

Background: Bioarchaeological investigations aim to reconstruct the biological profiles of past populations through the systematic analysis of human skeletal remains. Facial reconstruction is a specialized approach that complements these analyses by providing visual representations of historical individuals.

Objective: To present the comprehensive biological and facial reconstruction of individual No. 95, recovered from a mass grave associated with the 1526 Battle of Mohacs.

Materials and methods: The study combined bioarchaeological and archaeogenetic analyses with a digital facial reconstruction based on the Manchester method. Historical depictions of 16th-century European mercenaries guided the reconstruction of hairstyle, beard, and clothing.

Results: Individual No. 95 was a young adult male (25+ ys) with an estimated stature of 170–180 cm and a dental crossbite. A second skeletal unit (individual No. 60) may belong to the same person, although preservation prevented confirmation. Musculoskeletal markers indicate regular physical labour. At least 4–5 sharp-force injuries were identified on the head and neck, a facial reconstruction was created using osteological, genetic and archaeological evidence.

Conclusions: The integration of bioarchaeological, archaeogenetic, and digital facial reconstruction methods provides a detailed biological and visual reconstruction of an individual connected with the Battle of Mohacs. This interdisciplinary approach enhances our understanding of the lives and deaths of those buried in the Mohacs mass graves and demonstrates the value of combining scientific analyses with historical evidence.