MAIASP. 2025. No. 19 N.G. Svirkina (Moscow, Russia) Stable isotope analysis of bone collagen for reconstructing dietary practices of the inhabitants of Chersonesus (5th —4th centuries BCE) The present study presents a reconstruction of the diet of the inhabitants of Chersonesus based on stable isotope analysis of carbon and nitrogen in bone collagen. The analysis included bone samples from 28 adult individuals excavated from the northern necropolis of Chersonesus (led by G.D. Belov in 1936). The group exhibits considerable variability in δ13C and δ15N values, reflecting a diverse diet with multiple carbon sources and a variable proportion of protein intake. No significant differences were observed between individuals from early and late necropolis horizons, indicating stability in dietary patterns. Additionally, no significant correlation was observed between sex and diet. The position of skeletons in graves did not correlate with dietary patterns, calling into question the role of burial position as an ethnic or social marker. Compared to other ancient centers in the Northern Black Sea region, the Chersonesus group shows the widest range of δ13C and δ15N values and the lowest average δ15N values, reflecting the colony’s formation stage when inhabitants were adapting to new ecological and social conditions by utilizing local resources and establishing stable consumption models. This study emphasizes the importance of an integrated approach that considers ecological and cultural factors and highlights the necessity of comprehensive interdisciplinary research to enhance our understanding of ancient diets. Key words: the Northern Black Sea coast, colonization, settlers and indigenous populations, diet, isotope analysis. |