Funerary Customs of the Population in the Bishopric of Syrmia: The 17th–18th Century Necropolis at the Site of Palanka in Sremska Mitrovica

Abstract

During the protective archaeological excavations carried out by the Institute for the Protection of CulturalMonuments in Sremska Mitrovica at Palanka site in the east part of the town in 2014 and 2016, 18 graves from the 17 th -18 th century period were discovered. The surveying of this necropolis is of exceptional importance, for we have an opportunity for the first time to learn details about the residents of Sremska Mitrovica at the beginning of the Modern Age. The conducted analyses have enabled us to get an insight into their health status, the way of life and habits. On the other hand, the funerary customs and the grave finds, primarily rosaries with religious medals, hairpins, as well as a fragment of goldwork, speak of the social status, beliefs and the cultural identity of the community.