Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ancient Avar Communities: Culture Over Genetics Revealed

1/21/2025

48 5

Summary

Story summary

An international team from the Max Planck Institute has uncovered fascinating insights into Avar communities in Early Middle Ages Austria (567–822 CE). By examining over 700 human remains from Mödling and Leobersdorf, they found striking genetic diversity paired with a rich cultural integration, suggesting that shared customs, rather than genetics, shaped their ethnic identities.

1 of 1

Story summary

An international team from the Max Planck Institute has uncovered fascinating insights into Avar communities in Early Middle Ages Austria (567–822 CE). By examining over 700 human remains from Mödling and Leobersdorf, they found striking genetic diversity paired with a rich cultural integration, suggesting that shared customs, rather than genetics, shaped their ethnic identities.