Analysis of Roman Pet Monkeys Reveals Insights on Ancient Life

Analysis of monkey remains from the Roman port of Berenice, located on Egypt's Red Sea Coast, has identified these animals as rhesus macaques, bonnet macaques, and one grivet. The research led by Marta Osypińska from the University of Wrocław, Piotr Osypiński of the Polish Academy of Sciences, and Iwona Zych from the University of Warsaw suggests that these monkeys were likely kept as pets by Roman elites, particularly army officers, during the first and second centuries A.D.

This discovery is significant as it marks the first known instance of pet monkeys imported from regions outside the Roman Empire, with previous finds only identifying North African Barbary macaques at other Roman sites.

Reports indicate that one monkey was found buried alongside a piglet, large sea shells, a woven basket, and a piece of folded cloth resembling a rag doll. Another macaque was discovered with the remains of a puppy and a kitten, while a third had a tomb marker.

Despite these signs of special treatment, the analysis revealed evidence of malnutrition in the bones of the monkeys, suggesting that their Roman owners may have struggled to provide adequate care. This finding offers valuable insights into the domestication of animals and the complex human-animal relationships present in ancient Rome.

For further details on Berenice's animal necropolis, refer to the article "Around the World: Egypt" in Archaeology Magazine, which first reported these findings.