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

Abstract

In this study, pathologies referred to Byzantine period cattle used as draught animals
which are discovered in Istanbul Yenikapı 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 Yenikapı 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.