Oxygen isotopic evidence of residence and migration in a Greek colonial population on the Black Sea

Oxygen isotope analysis was performed on the enamel of the first and third permanent molars of 60 individuals excavated from the Kalfata-Budjaka necropolis associated with the ancient Greek colony of Apollonia Pontica (5th–3rd centuries BC) on the Black Sea coast of Bulgaria. The objective of this study was to examine the geographic origins and residential histories of these individuals and to compare the isotopic data with archaeological evidence derived from the burials in an attempt to distinguish ‘locals’ from ‘non-locals’. The analysis revealed that 55 of the 60 individuals sampled were either locally born or came from areas outside of Apollonia with isotopically similar δ18O values. Five individuals were identified as ‘non-local’, and their isotope values suggest that they originated from areas with higher δ18Ow of precipitation, most likely the Aegean region. Unfortunately, the archaeological evidence associated with these five skeletons provides no clues as to their place of origin.

► We examine the residential histories of a skeletal sample from Apollonia Pontica.
► Oxygen isotope analysis of teeth is used to distinguish locals from non-locals.
► Most individuals were born locally or came from areas with similar isotope values.
► Five individuals were identified as non-local and likely came from the Aegean region.