Health, stress, and urbanism in the Hellenistic–Roman metropolis of Nea Paphos, Cyprus: A comparative analysis

A comparative bioarchaeological study of two necropolises in Nea Paphos, Cyprus, reveals distinct health and stress patterns between urban and suburban populations during the Hellenistic–Roman periods (312 BC–395 AD). The Eastern Necropolis, linked to the capital, showed higher frequencies of porotic hyperostosis (PH) and cribra orbitalia (CO)—indicators of childhood stress—suggesting greater exposure to environmental or nutritional stressors in urban residents. Conversely, Ktima-Upper City exhibited more linear enamel hypoplasia (LEH), a marker of developmental stress, hinting at differing social, cultural, or dietary factors. These findings imply subtle but meaningful divisions between the two groups, offering new insights into urban-rural health disparities in ancient Cyprus. The study leverages macroscopic analysis of 372 individuals to advance understanding of Hellenistic–Roman Cypriot populations.

Ioannou, G., & Lorentz, K. O. (2023). Health, stress, and urbanism in the Hellenistic–Roman metropolis of Nea Paphos, Cyprus: A comparative analysis. International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, 33(5), 955–966. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/oa.3257