Differences were also observed in cremation conditions between the Metal Ages and the Gallo-Roman cremations from Belgium, with Roman cremations presenting better oxygen availability during combustion.
This study assesses cremation conditions in the Roman period using a multi-proxy analysis (FTIR-ATR and carbon and oxygen isotope analysis) on 332 burned bones from five Belgian Gallo-Roman cemeteries.
Finally, the Gallo-Roman cemetery of Fouches is particularly interesting, as it dates to the Early Roman period and presents similarities in ventilation conditions with the cemeteries from the Metal Ages instead of the other Gallo-Roman cemeteries.
However, high variability in δ13C and δ18O values indicates differences in fuel selection and environmental factors.
The dating of Fouches to the Early Roman period could potentially explain that Roman cremation expertise was not immediately widespread but rather transferred gradually to the edges of the Roman Empire.
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In this study we explored how weather & seasonality impact cremation conditions using experimental archaeology, FTIR-ATR, and isotope analysis.
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The evidence from Fouches suggests a gradual transition from the Metal Ages to Roman cremation practices.