The first biomolecular evidence of leopards (Panthera pardus, Linnaeus, 1758) from the Roman era reveals the participation of African big cats in provincial amphitheatres

Abstract

Numerous ancient texts and iconographic evidence point to the frequent use of leopards and other exotic big cats in amphitheatre spectacles. However, due to their scarce presence in archaeofaunal collections, it has been assumed that these fierce beasts, of African and Asian origin, were mainly showcased in the Colosseum in Rome and a few other large Italian amphitheatres. In contrast, provincial amphitheatres were thought to feature more locally accessible animals, such as brown bears and wild boar. During the excavation of the amphitheatre in Viminacium, situated along the Danube Limes in present-day Serbia, a part of a leopard’s front limb was uncovered dated to 240–350 cal CE (95% probability). Genetic analysis indicates that it belonged to a male leopard of African origin, while carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ 15N) stable isotopes reflect leopard diet in the wild, before captivity. This unique discovery offers new insights into the participation and supply of exotic beasts for provincial amphitheatres and uncovers aspects of animal trading during Roman times