Dental calculus analysis can be a valuable source of archaeological knowledge, since it preserves not only microbial and host biomolecules but also dietary and environmental debris, as well as metabolic products likely originating from dietary and craft activities. Here we described GC-MS analysis of a set of historic dental calculus samples from the front teeth of the mandibles of seven individuals found in 17th- and 18th-century graves in the city of Rzeszow, located in South-eastern Poland. We have found that only saturated fatty acids, which are characteristic for fats of animal origin, were present in the tested samples. Our preliminary results indicate that the diet of modern-period inhabitants of Rzeszow was rich in animal products, such as meat and dairy products.

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In 2017 the sewers and water mains in Biecz at the crossroads of 3 Maja and Kolejowa Street underwent modernisation and the work was subject to archaeological supervision. This led to the discovery of several burials, concentrations of human bones, and parts of buildings. Analysis of the findings plus examination of historical records points to these belonging to the graveyard of the now defunct St. James’ Church and a police station from the late 19th century. The results of the supervision were expanded upon by anthropological examination of the human remains and radiocarbon dating, both of which broadened the scope for interpreting the finds. The former helped identify the sex and age of the deceased as well as any pathological changes they may have undergone. Carbon dating confirmed that the burials took place in the 17–18th centuries. The above findings represent a major step in identifying where St. James’ Church in Biecz was located.

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