EAA2021: Abstract

The “horse riding syndrome” comprises a number of changes on the human skeleton which, if found in association, could indicate that the individual in question practiced horse riding as a habitual activity during his or her lifetime. In the bioarchaeological literature, “Poiriers’ Facet” (Reiterfacette) has been referred to as one characteristic trait of the “horse riding syndrome“. Therefore, in archaeological contexts, individuals where “Poiriers’ Facet” (Reiterfacette) is present on one or both femurs could be expected to exhibit a higher prevalence of other characteristics of the “horse riding syndrome”. Firstly, the aim of this paper is to contribute to methodological research on the “horse riding syndrome”, by testing possible associations between different characteristics within the adult population of an Avar cemetery of the 7th-8th century AD from Eastern Austria (Wien-Csokorgasse). Avar populations are ideally suited for methodological research on the “horse riding syndrome”, because – according to historical sources – the Avars were accomplished mounted warriors. Indeed, the results demonstrate a clear association between the presence of “Poiriers’ Facet” on the proximal femur of an individual and the prevalence of other characteristics of the “horse riding syndrome” on the bony pelvis and leg bones of the same individual. Secondly, the aim of this paper is to identify possible differences in activity patterns between different groups within the adult population of Wien-Csokorgasse. This research is expected to contribute to existing knowledge regarding the “way of life” and habitual activities of Avar populations in Eastern Austria. The results suggest differences in habitual activity patterns within the Avar population in question, especially between the sexes, as well as chronological differences.

Avar archaeology, Horse-riding syndrome, Poiriers' Facet

 Abstract (PDF)

Birgit Bühler^1,2

Sylvia Kirchengast²