Unveiling the origins and genetic makeup of the “forgotten people”: A study of the Sarmatian-period population in the Carpathian Basin

AI interpretationAI-generated

Ancient DNA reveals Sarmatian origins and migrations in the Carpathian Basin.

This study analyzed 156 ancient genomes from 1st-5th century Hungary and the Carpathian foothills. It shows that Carpathian Basin Sarmatians had minor East Asian ancestry, distinguishing them from other regional groups. They descended from Steppe Sarmatians from the Ural and Kazakhstan regions, with Romanian Sarmatians as a possible genetic bridge. Two unknown migration waves and population continuity into the Hunnic period were also found.

• Carpathian Basin Sarmatians carried minor East Asian ancestry, setting them apart from other regional populations.
• They descended from Steppe Sarmatians originating in the Ural and Kazakhstan regions, with Romanian Sarmatians as a possible genetic bridge.
• Two previously unknown migration waves occurred during the Sarmatian era, and the population showed notable continuity into the Hunnic period despite a smaller influx of Asian-origin individuals.

Sample interpretation

The study includes 105 samples from the site, with 53 Y-chromosome lineages resolved. The most common Y haplogroups are R-YP1269 (4), R-Y53 (3), R-Y91288 (2), and R-BY27616 (2). Mitochondrial DNA is diverse, with T1a1 (5), H-T152C! (4), and W3a1 (4) being the most frequent. Cultures range from Early Sarmatian to Hun period, with the largest group being Middle-Late Sarmatian (33). Key sites include MDH-84 (14) and CSK-9 (8).

For genealogy enthusiasts

For ancestry enthusiasts, this study highlights the complex migrations and genetic continuity of Sarmatians in the Carpathian Basin. It shows how ancient DNA can trace population movements and admixture, offering a deeper understanding of steppe nomads and their legacy in Europe.