Ancient DNA Reveals Mystery of Plague of Justinian in Jordan Mass Burial

Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in Jerash, Jordan, that is rewriting our understanding of one of the deadliest pandemics in history. For centuries, scientists have debated what actually caused the Plague of Justinian—a devastating epidemic that swept through the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century, killing millions and changing the course of history.

Now, researchers have found direct genetic evidence of Yersinia pestis—the same bacteria that later caused the Black Death—in a Byzantine mass burial in Jerash.

Why it matters

The Plague of Justinian (541–549 AD) has long puzzled historians. Ancient sources described horrific outbreaks, but until now, the biological culprit remained unknown. This discovery ends the debate, proving that the same deadly pathogen had repeatedly struck humanity over the centuries.

The science behind the discovery

Using advanced ancient DNA (aDNA) analysis, scientists have extracted genetic material from human remains buried together during the outbreak. The results revealed unmistakable traces of Yersinia pestis, solving a mystery that has lasted for almost 1,500 years.

Such work is expensive—experts estimate that fully sequencing and analyzing the DNA of an ancient pathogen can cost tens of thousands of dollars per project, underscoring the enormous effort behind this breakthrough.

Broader implications

Confirms the global reach of plague pandemics much earlier than previously thought.

Gives insight into how pathogens evolve and reemerge over centuries.

Gives archaeologists and epidemiologists new insights into the collapse of ancient populations.

Expert opinion

Scientists are calling the find “indisputable evidence” in plague research. One archaeologist said, “This discovery directly links the Plague of Justinian to later outbreaks, reminding us that history and biology are deeply intertwined.”

Why now?

The breakthrough represents a new era in archaeology, where genetics, bioinformatics, and classical excavations work side by side. For the first time, we can see beyond the bones and ruins the molecular traces of humanity’s greatest struggles.