Mass graves as an example of specific internment of the deceased in the Middle Ages and the churchyard at the Church of All Saints with an ossuary in Kutná Hora - Sedlec

Vol.48,No.2(2023)

Abstract
Graves containing a larger number of the deceased obviously buried over a short period of time (mass graves) are usually associated with the victims of war conflicts. Recently, attention has been paid to graves with the victims of epidemics and famine, yet linking them securely to a specific event is difficult. This article uses the example of the finds at the ossuary in Kutná Hora – Sedlec to examine the details of the burial rite (ceremonial or non-ceremonial internment, grave goods), the layout of mass graves and the evidence of measures to eliminate concerns over the possible spread of a disease. The comparison might show differences in burial practices between the victims of famine (1318) and plague (1348–1350).

Keywords:
Middle Ages; mass graves; epidemic; plague; famine

Pages:
497–521
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