Ricostruzione del profilo bioantropologico e paleopatologico delle mummie naturali delle Clarisse Eremite di Fara in Sabina (Rieti). Progetto di studio

The mummified bodies held in the monastery of the Hermit Poor Clares of Fara in Sabina have been known for some time, but they are only occasionally mentioned in paleopathological literature. The series includes seventeen mummies and a single mummified head. This monastic community of Franciscan nuns dates back to 17th Century and followed the early St. Clare’s Rule combined with a rigid seclusion and strict loyalty to ecclesiastical hierarchies. A preliminary survey took place at the very beginning of 2022, in order to plan further investigations. The conservative investigation approach includes external examination, anthropometric and paleopathological studies through computed tomography scanning, followed by minimally invasive sampling addressed to paleonutritional and paleogenomic analyses. The commodity study of the textile fragments recovered during the external analysis, of the surviving grave goods, and of all the aspects related to the post-mortal treatment and care of the bodies, will aim to shed light on the secret life of this small community lived away from the world. The study will provide important information on genetic features, nutritional status and diseases of the individuals.