Turkish cemetery in Iași

In Iași, on Stradela Sf. Atanasie no. 1A, within the area of the “Historic Centre – Princely Court” site, preventive archaeological investigations carried out in 2019–2020 and 2022–2023 have confirmed the existence of an old “Turkish cemetery”, mentioned in 19th-century sources.
The investigations led to the discovery and documentation of over 700 archaeological features, including approximately 640 graves dated between the 17th century and the first half of the 19th century. The relatively modest funerary inventory includes coins, ornaments, and ceramic fragments, while preliminary analyses indicate a predominantly young population, likely affected by the epidemics of the time.
The archaeological data reveal a wide diversity of funerary practices, reflected in the orientation and positioning of the deceased, as well as in the presence or absence of coffins. A significant proportion of the graves were disturbed by later interventions, either modern or resulting from the reuse of funerary space.
In addition to the burial features, other types of archaeological contexts were identified, including cellars, clay extraction pits, and refuse pits, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of habitation in the area during the premodern and modern periods.
Overall, the results provide essential insights into demographic dynamics, health conditions, and living standards, while also contributing to a better understanding of the ethnic and social diversity of Iași between the 17th and 19th centuries.

This post contains images of human remains documented in an archaeological context. Viewer discretion is advised.