Diet and mobility in Medieval Florence: a multi-isotopic approach

We have employed a multi-isotopic approach (δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S), for the first time in high medieval Italy, with the aim of reconstructing possible mobility patterns and diet of a population from Florence (11th-13th century CE). The individuals were recovered from the Uffizi complex in the cloister arcade of the former church of San Pier Scheraggio. The type of burial and its position in the church suggests the individuals had a relevant social status. Historical sources suggest that between the Early and Late Middle Ages, is evident an increasing disparity between social classes often resulted in the differential consumption of particular cereals and meats. During this period the Church’s influence became more severe, also for what concerns diet. This is reflected in the imposition of fish in substitution for meat on several days per year. Regarding mobility, no isotopic studies have focused on medieval Tuscany. There needs to be more direct evidence that inquires into the diet of medieval Florence. All of this highlights the necessity for an isotopic study. Our analysis suggests that the dietary patterns of the population buried at San Pier Scheraggio are consistent with those observed in other medieval communities in Italy. However, our results reveal a higher proportion of animal products in this population’s diet than in other groups. Our results also show that, at least in our samples, during medieval times in Florence, there were no dietary differences in relation to age or sex. Ultimately, thanks to the sulphur isotopes it was possible to propose mobility for at least one individual buried at the site.