Ancient DNA Analysis Unveils Social and Marriage Practices of Avar Society

Recent studies highlight the Avars' complex kinship systems and the role of women in linking communities over generations.

DNA analysis of 424 individuals from Avar-era cemeteries in Hungary reveals a patrilineal society with strict marriage and social practices.
Women played a crucial role in Avar society, marrying outside their communities to promote social cohesion.
The Avars maintained a detailed genetic memory, avoiding close relative marriages and preserving knowledge of their ancestry.
Multiple reproductive partnerships were common, with evidence of levirate unions where related men shared partners.
The findings, combining genetics with archaeological and historical data, offer new insights into the social dynamics of ancient Eurasian steppe societies.