OSTEOLOGICAL EVIDENCES OF BYZANTINE DRAUGHT CATTLE FROM THEODOSIUS HARBOUR AT YENIKAPI, ISTANBUL

Abstract

In this study, pathologies referred to Byzantine period cattle used as draught animals which are discovered in Istanbul Yenikapi Metro and Marmaray Excavation are reviewed. As a result of this review, it is determined that cows and bulls are used as draught animals for their workforce and thereupon some pathologies are determined on their extremity bones and posterior parts of their skull. These are symptoms like metapodial asymmetry, proximal, distal and peripheral exostoses, metapodial and cornual depressions, distal lipping, nuchal perforation and dehorning. The skeleton remains of Yenikapi cattle belong to young and old cattle, but it is determined that the individuals with these pathologies are elder ones. The individuals demonstrating these pathologies are both male and female cattle, so it is understood that the animals exploited for draught power are not only bulls, but the females were also used for pulling.